Revenue Recognition - Changes in Loyalty Program Liability (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2020	Dec. 31, 2019
Movement In Contract With Customer, Liability [Roll Forward]
Beginning balance	$ 13,423
Ending balance	13,997
Loyalty program liability
Movement In Contract With Customer, Liability [Roll Forward]
Beginning balance	8,615
Deferral of revenue	1,456
Recognition of revenue	(977)
Ending balance	$ 9,094
Inactive period before expiration of mileage credits	18 months
Deferred revenue, current	$ 2,051	$ 3,193
Revenue recognition term	12 months
American Airlines, Inc.
Movement In Contract With Customer, Liability [Roll Forward]
Beginning balance	$ 13,423
Ending balance	13,997
American Airlines, Inc. | Loyalty program liability
Movement In Contract With Customer, Liability [Roll Forward]
Beginning balance	8,615
Deferral of revenue	1,456
Recognition of revenue	(977)
Ending balance	9,094
Deferred revenue, current	$ 2,051	$ 3,193