COMMITMENTS AND CONTINGENCIES (Details) (USD $) In Millions, unless otherwise specified	3 Months Ended
Mar. 31, 2012	Dec. 31, 2011
Contingencies: [Abstract]
Municipal Bonds Issued	$ 310
Expected total LFMP cost	519
Construction obligation	$ 239	$ 202

The aggregate costs related to Love Field Modernization Project construction activities and recorded as an asset with a corresponding obligation.

No definition available.

Name:	luv_TotalRecordedLfmpConstructionCosts
Namespace Prefix:	luv_
Data Type:	xbrli:monetaryItemType
Balance Type:	credit
Period Type:	instant