Compensation and Retirement Disclosure [Abstract]
EMPLOYEE BENEFIT PLANS
Pension and Other Postretirement Benefits Disclosure [Text Block]
Debt Disclosure [Abstract]
LONG-TERM DEBT
Long-term Debt [Text Block]
Income Tax Disclosure [Abstract]
Current tax expense (benefit):
Components of Income Tax Expense (Benefit), Continuing Operations [Abstract]
Federal
Current Federal Tax Expense (Benefit)
State
Current State and Local Tax Expense (Benefit)
Total current
Current Income Tax Expense (Benefit)
Deferred tax expense:
Deferred Income Tax Expense (Benefit), Continuing Operations [Abstract]
Federal
Deferred Federal Income Tax Expense (Benefit)
State
Deferred State and Local Income Tax Expense (Benefit)
Total deferred
Deferred Income Tax Expense (Benefit)
Total tax expense related to income
Income Tax Expense (Benefit)
Equity [Abstract]
Statement [Table]
Statement [Table]
Scenario [Axis]
Scenario [Axis]
Scenario, Unspecified [Domain]
Scenario, Unspecified [Domain]
Statement [Line Items]
Statement [Line Items]
Unrealized gain on marketable securities considered available-for-sale
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Available-for-sale Securities Adjustment, Net of Tax
Related to employee benefit plans
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Pension and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans, Net of Tax
Related to interest rate derivatives
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Cumulative Changes in Net Gain (Loss) from Cash Flow Hedges, Effect Net of Tax
Accumulated other comprehensive loss
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax
Commitments and Contingencies Disclosure [Abstract]
Unrecorded Unconditional Purchase Obligation [Table]
Unrecorded Unconditional Purchase Obligation [Table]
Property Subject to or Available for Operating Lease [Axis]
Property Subject to or Available for Operating Lease [Axis]
Property Subject to or Available for Operating Lease [Domain]
Property Subject to or Available for Operating Lease [Domain]
Non Operating Aircraft [Member]
Non Operating Aircraft [Member]
Non Operating Aircraft [Member]
Assets Leased to Others [Member]
Assets Leased to Others [Member]
Aircraft Type [Axis]
Aircraft [Domain]
B737 [Member]
B737 [Member]
B-737-800 [Member]
B737-900ER [Member]
B737-900ER [Member]
B737 MAX [Member]
B737 MAX [Member]
B737 MAX [Member]
Q400 [Member]
Q400 [Member]
Q400 [Member]
Property, Plant and Equipment, Type [Axis]
Property, Plant and Equipment, Type [Domain]
Aircraft Leases [Member]
Aircraft [Member]
Aircraft [Member]
Facility Leases [Member]
Building [Member]
Unrecorded Unconditional Purchase Obligation by Category of Item Purchased [Axis]
Unrecorded Unconditional Purchase Obligation by Category of Item Purchased [Axis]
Unconditional Purchase Obligation, Category of Goods or Services Acquired [Domain]
Unconditional Purchase Obligation, Category of Goods or Services Acquired [Domain]
Aircraft Commitments [Member]
Capital Addition Purchase Commitments [Member]
Capacity Purchase Agreements[Member]
Capacity [Member]
Engine Maintenance [Member]
Engine Maintenance [Member]
Legal Entity [Axis]
Entity [Domain]
Horizon [Member]
Horizon Segment [Member]
Unrecorded Unconditional Purchase Obligation [Line Items]
Unrecorded Unconditional Purchase Obligation [Line Items]
Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments Due, Fiscal Year Maturity [Abstract]
2014
Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments Due, Next Twelve Months
2015
Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments, Due in Two Years
2016
Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments, Due in Three Years
2017
Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments, Due in Four Years
2018
Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments, Due in Five Years
Thereafter
Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments, Due Thereafter
Total
Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments Due
Unrecorded Unconditional Purchase Obligation, Fiscal Year Maturity [Abstract]
2014
Unrecorded Unconditional Purchase Obligation, Due in Next Twelve Months
2015
Unrecorded Unconditional Purchase Obligation, Due within Two Years
2016
Unrecorded Unconditional Purchase Obligation, Due within Three Years
2017
Unrecorded Unconditional Purchase Obligation, Due within Four Years
2018
Unrecorded Unconditional Purchase Obligation, Due within Five Years
Thereafter
Unrecorded Unconditional Purchase Obligation, Due after Five Years
Total
Unrecorded Unconditional Purchase Obligation
Operating leases, number of leased assets (in aircraft)
Property Subject to or Available for Operating Lease, Number of Units
Rent expense
Operating Leases, Rent Expense
Commited to purchase (in aircraft)
Unrecorded Unconditional Purchase Obligation, Minimum Quantity Required
Operating Leases, Number of Units
Operating Leases, Number of Units
Operating Leases, Number of Units
Option to purchase additional (in aircraft)
Unrecorded Unconditional Purchase Obligation, Option to Purchase Additional
Unrecorded Unconditional Purchase Obligation, Option to Purchase Additional
Capacity purchase arrangements, Carriers
Airline, Capacity Purchase Arrangements, Carriers
Airline, Capacity Purchase Arrangements, Carriers
Capacity purchase arrangements, Percent
Airline, Capacity Purchase Arrangements, Percent
Airline, Capacity Purchase Arrangements, Percent
Operating Loss Carryforwards [Table]
Operating Loss Carryforwards [Table]
Operating Loss By Type [Axis]
Operating Loss By Type [Axis]
Operating Loss By Type [Axis]
Operating Loss By Type [Domain]
Operating Loss By Type [Domain]
Operating Loss By Type [Domain]
Equity Compensation in Excess of Compensation Recognized [Member]
Equity Compensation in Excess of Compensation Recognized [Member]
Equity Compensation in Excess of Compensation Recognized [Member]
Operating Loss Carryforwards [Line Items]
Operating Loss Carryforwards [Line Items]
Loss carryforwards
Operating Loss Carryforwards
Schedule of Defined Benefit Plans Disclosures [Table]
Schedule of Defined Benefit Plans Disclosures [Table]
Range [Axis]
Range [Axis]
Range [Domain]
Range [Domain]
Minimum [Member]
Minimum [Member]
Maximum [Member]
Maximum [Member]
Defined Benefit Plans and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans Disclosures [Axis]
Defined Benefit Plans and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans [Axis]
Defined Benefit Plans and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans [Domain]
Defined Benefit Plan and Other Postretirement Benefit Plan [Domain]
Qualified Defined Benefit [Member]
Pension Plan, Defined Benefit [Member]
Nonqualified Defined Benefit [Member]
Other Pension Plan, Defined Benefit [Member]
Postretirement Medical Benefits [Member]
Other Postretirement Benefit Plan, Defined Benefit [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Defined Benefit Plan, Net Periodic Benefit Cost [Abstract]
Defined Benefit Plan, Net Periodic Benefit Cost [Abstract]
Service cost
Defined Benefit Plan, Service Cost
Interest cost
Defined Benefit Plan, Interest Cost
Expected return on assets
Defined Benefit Plan, Expected Return on Plan Assets
Amortization of prior service cost
Defined Benefit Plan, Amortization of Prior Service Cost (Credit)
Recognized actuarial (gain) loss
Defined Benefit Plan, Amortization of Gains (Losses)
Net periodic benefit cost
Defined Benefit Plan, Net Periodic Benefit Cost
Anticipated funding in 2013
Defined Benefit Plans, Estimated Future Employer Contributions in Next Fiscal Year
Prospective Adoption of New Accounting Pronouncements [Abstract]
New Accounting Pronouncements or Change in Accounting Principle [Table]
New Accounting Pronouncements or Change in Accounting Principle [Table]
Adjustments for New Accounting Pronouncements [Axis]
Adjustments for New Accounting Pronouncements [Axis]
Type of Adoption [Domain]
Type of Adoption [Domain]
Accounting Standards Update 2009-13 [Member]
Accounting Standards Update 2009-13 [Member]
New Accounting Pronouncements or Change in Accounting Principle [Line Items]
New Accounting Pronouncements or Change in Accounting Principle [Line Items]
Special Revenue Item, Per Diluted Share
Special Revenue Item, Per Diluted Share
Special Revenue Item, Per Diluted Share
Special Revenue Item, Per Basic Share
Special Revenue Item, Per Basic Share
Special Revenue Item, Per Basic Share
Special Revenue
Special Revenue
Special Revenue
Segment Reporting [Abstract]
Operating Segment Information
Segment Reporting Disclosure [Text Block]
Accounting Policies [Abstract]
Property, Plant and Equipment [Table Text Block]
Property, Plant and Equipment [Table Text Block]
Liabilities from Mileage Plan [Table Text Block]
Liabilities from Mileage Plan [Table Text Block]
Liabilities from Mileage Plan
Revenue from Mileage Plan [Table Text Block]
Revenue from Mileage Plan [Table Text Block]
Revenue from Mileage Plan
Accounting Changes and Error Corrections [Abstract]
Schedule of Change in Accounting Estimate [Table]
Schedule of Change in Accounting Estimate [Table]
Special Mileage Plan Revenue [Member]
Special Mileage Plan Revenue [Member]
Special Revenue [Member]
Change in Accounting Estimate by Type [Axis]
Change in Accounting Estimate by Type [Axis]
Change in Accounting Estimate, Type [Domain]
Change in Accounting Estimate, Type [Domain]
Original Estimate [Member]
Original Estimate [Member]
Original Estimate [Member]
Revised Estimate [Member]
Revised Estimate [Member]
Revised Estimate [Member]
Change in Accounting Estimate [Line Items]
Change in Accounting Estimate [Line Items]
Percent of Mileage Breakage
Percent of Mileage Breakage
Percent of Mileage Breakage
Change in Accounting Estimate, Financial Effect
Change in Accounting Estimate, Financial Effect
Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities Disclosure [Abstract]
Derivative [Table]
Derivative [Table]
Hedging Designation [Axis]
Hedging Designation [Domain]
Not Designated as Hedging Instrument [Member]
Derivative Instruments Designated as Hedges [Member]
Designated as Hedging Instrument [Member]
Derivative Instrument [Axis]
Derivative Contract [Domain]
Fuel hedge contracts [Member]
Commodity Contract [Member]
Aircraft Type [Axis]
Aircraft Type [Domain]
B737-800 [Member]
Derivative [Line Items]
Derivative [Line Items]
Net cash received (paid) to for new positions and settlements
Payments for (Proceeds from) Hedge, Investing Activities
Fuel hedge contracts outstanding (in gallons)
Derivative, Nonmonetary Notional Amount
Capital Leased Assets, Number of B737-800 Aircraft
Capital Leased Assets, Number of Units
Cash, Cash Equivalents, and Short-term Investments [Abstract]
Schedule of Cash, Cash Equivalents and Short-term Investments [Table Text Block]
Cash, Cash Equivalents and Investments [Table Text Block]
Schedule of Realized Gain (Loss) [Table Text Block]
Schedule of Realized Gain (Loss) [Table Text Block]
Schedule of Debt Investment Maturities [Table Text Block]
Investments Classified by Contractual Maturity Date [Table Text Block]
Advertising expense
Advertising Expense
Fair Values Derivatives, Balance Sheet Location, by Derivative Contract Type [Table]
Fair Values Derivatives, Balance Sheet Location, by Derivative Contract Type [Table]
Derivative Instrument Risk [Axis]
Derivative Contract Type [Domain]
Interest rate swaps agreements [Member]
Interest Rate Swap [Member]
Hedging Designation [Axis]
Hedging Designation [Domain]
Derivative Instruments Not Designated as Hedges [Member]
Balance Sheet Location [Axis]
Balance Sheet Location [Axis]
Balance Sheet Location [Domain]
Balance Sheet Location [Domain]
Fuel Hedge Contracts, Current [Member]
Fuel Hedge Contracts, Current [Member]
Fuel Hedge Contracts, Current [Member]
Fuel Hedge Contracts, Noncurrent [Member]
Fuel Hedge Contracts, Noncurrent [Member]
Fuel Hedge Contracts, Noncurrent [Member]
Other Accrued Liabilities [Member]
Other Accrued Liabilities [Member]
Other Accrued Liabilities [Member]
Other Liabilities [Member]
Other Liabilities [Member]
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Loss [Member]
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Balance Sheet Location [Member]
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income Loss, Balance Sheet Location
Derivatives, Fair Value [Line Items]
Derivatives, Fair Value [Line Items]
Derivative Assets, Current
Derivative Asset, Current
Derivative Assets, Noncurrent
Derivative Asset, Noncurrent
Derivative Liabilities, Current
Derivative Liability, Current
Derivative Liabilities, Noncurrent
Derivative Liability, Noncurrent
Accumulated other comprehensive loss
Derivative, Collateral, Right to Reclaim Cash
Derivative, Collateral, Right to Reclaim Cash
Disclosure of Compensation Related Costs, Share-based Payments [Abstract]
STOCK-BASED COMPENSATION PLANS
Disclosure of Compensation Related Costs, Share-based Payments [Text Block]
U.S. federal tax rate
Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, at Federal Statutory Income Tax Rate, Percent
Income (loss) before income tax
Income (Loss) from Continuing Operations before Equity Method Investments, Income Taxes, Extraordinary Items, Noncontrolling Interest
Expected tax expense
Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation at Federal Statutory Income Tax Rate, Amount
Nondeductible expenses
Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, Nondeductible Expense, Amount
State income taxes
Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, State and Local Income Taxes, Amount
Other—net
Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, Other Reconciling Items, Amount
Effective tax rate
Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, Percent
Line of Credit Facility [Table]
Line of Credit Facility [Table]
Scenario, Previously Reported [Member]
Scenario, Previously Reported [Member]
Line of Credit Facility [Axis]
Lender Name [Axis]
Line of Credit Facility, Lender [Domain]
Line of Credit Facility, Lender [Domain]
Secured by aircraft [Member]
Secured by aircraft [Member]
Secured by aircraft [Member]
Secured by other [Member]
Secured by other [Member]
Secured by other [Member]
Line of Credit Facility [Line Items]
Line of Credit Facility [Line Items]
Line of Credit Facility, Number of Credit Facilities
Line of Credit Facility, Number of Credit Facilities
Line of Credit Facility, Number of Credit Facilities
Line of credit facility, borrowing capacity
Line of Credit Facility, Maximum Borrowing Capacity
Line of credit facility, expiration date
Line of Credit Facility, Expiration Date
Line of credit facility, minimum asset requirement
Line of Credit Facility, Asset Restrictions
Schedule of Future Minimum Rental Payments for Operating Leases and Unrecorded Unconditional Purchase Obligtaions [Table Text Block]
Schedule of Future Minimum Rental Payments for Operating Leases and Unrecorded Unconditional Purchase Obligations [Table Text Block]
Schedule of Future Minimum Rental Payments for Operating Leases and Unrecorded Unconditional Purchase Obligtaions [Table Text Block]
Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) by Hedging Relationship, by Income Statement Location, by Derivative Instrument Risk [Table]
Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) [Table]
Hedging Relationship [Axis]
Hedging Relationship [Domain]
Cash Flow Hedging [Member]
Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) by Income Statement Location [Axis]
Income Statement Location [Axis]
Income Statement and Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) Location [Domain]
Income Statement Location [Domain]
Gains (losses) recognized in aircraft fuel expense [Member]
Aircraft Fuel Expense [Member]
Aircraft Fuel Expense [Member]
Gains (losses) recognized in aircraft rent [Member]
Aircraft Rent [Member]
Aircraft Rent [Member]
Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) [Line Items]
Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) [Line Items]
Losses recognized in income
Derivative, Gain (Loss) on Derivative, Net
Losses in accumulated other comprehensive loss
Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) Recognized in Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Effective Portion, Net
Derivative Loss in Accumulated Other Comprehensive Loss To Be Reclassified Within Next Twelve Months
Price Risk Cash Flow Hedge Unrealized Gain (Loss) to be Reclassified During Next 12 Months
Document and Entity Information [Abstract]
Document and Entity Information [Abstract]
Document Information [Table]
Document Information [Table]
Legal Entity [Axis]
Entity [Domain]
Entity Information [Line Items]
Entity Information [Line Items]
Entity Registrant Name
Entity Registrant Name
Entity Central Index Key
Entity Central Index Key
Current Fiscal Year End Date
Current Fiscal Year End Date
Entity Filer Category
Entity Filer Category
Document Type
Document Type
Document Fiscal Year Focus
Document Fiscal Year Focus
Document Fiscal Period Focus
Document Fiscal Period Focus
Amendment Flag
Amendment Flag
Entity Common Stock, Shares Outstanding
Entity Common Stock, Shares Outstanding
Entity Well-known Seasoned Issuer
Entity Well-known Seasoned Issuer
Entity Voluntary Filers
Entity Voluntary Filers
Entity Current Reporting Status
Entity Current Reporting Status
Entity Public Float
Entity Public Float
Document Period End Date
Document Period End Date
Statement of Comprehensive Income [Abstract]
Net Income
Net Income (Loss) Attributable to Parent
Other comprehensive income (loss):
Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Tax [Abstract]
Related to marketable securities:
Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Available-for-sale Securities Adjustment, Net of Tax [Abstract]
Unrealized holding gains and losses arising during the period
Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Unrealized Holding Gain (Loss) on Securities Arising During Period, before Tax
Reclassification adjustment for gains and losses included in net income
Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Reclassification Adjustment from AOCI for Sale of Securities, before Tax
Income tax benefit (expense)
Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Available-for-sale Securities, Tax
Marketable securities, net of tax
Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Available-for-sale Securities Adjustment, Net of Tax
Related to employee benefit plans:
Other Comprehensive (Income) Loss, Pension and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans, Adjustment, Net of Tax [Abstract]
Actuarial gains and losses related to pension and other postretirement benefit plans
Other Comprehensive (Income) Loss, Pension and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans, Adjustment, before Tax
Other Comprehensive (Income) Loss, Reclassification Adjustment from AOCI, Pension and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans, before Tax
Other Comprehensive (Income) Loss, Reclassification Adjustment from AOCI, Pension and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans, before Tax
Income tax benefit
Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Tax
Employee benefit plans, net of tax
Other Comprehensive (Income) Loss, Pension and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans, Adjustment, Net of Tax
Related to interest rate derivative instruments:
Derivative Instruments and Hedges, Assets [Abstract]
Unrealized holding gains and losses arising during the period
Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Derivatives Qualifying as Hedges, before Tax
Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Reclassification Adjustment from AOCI on Derivatives, before Tax
Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Reclassification Adjustment from AOCI on Derivatives, before Tax
Income tax benefit
Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Derivatives Qualifying as Hedges, Tax
Interest rate derivative instruments, net of tax
Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Derivatives Qualifying as Hedges, Net of Tax
Other comprehensive loss
Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax
Comprehensive income
Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax, Attributable to Parent
Schedule of Segment Reporting Information, by Segment [Table Text Block]
Schedule of Segment Reporting Information, by Segment [Table Text Block]
Equity, Class of Treasury Stock [Line Items]
Equity, Class of Treasury Stock [Line Items]
Common Stock Outstanding
Common Stock, Shares, Outstanding
Retirement of treasury stock
Treasury Stock, Shares, Retired
Treasury Stock, Shares
Treasury Stock, Shares
Statement of Cash Flows [Abstract]
Cash flows from operating activities:
Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Operating Activities [Abstract]
Adjustments to reconcile net income to net cash provided by operating activities:
Adjustments to Reconcile Net Income (Loss) to Cash Provided by (Used in) Operating Activities [Abstract]
Special Revenue Adjustment
Special Revenue Adjustment
Special Revenue Adjustment
Depreciation and amortization
Depreciation, Depletion and Amortization
Stock-based compensation and other
Share-based Compensation
Changes in certain assets and liabilities:
Increase (Decrease) in Other Operating Assets and Liabilities, Net [Abstract]
Changes in fair values of open fuel hedge contracts
Unrealized Gain (Loss) on Derivatives
Changes in deferred income taxes
Increase (Decrease) in Deferred Income Taxes
Increase (Decrease) in Other Current Liabilities
Increase (Decrease) in Other Current Liabilities
Increase (decrease) in air traffic liability
Increase (Decrease) in Air Traffic Liability
Increase (decrease) in deferred revenue
Increase (Decrease) in Deferred Revenue
Increase (decrease) in other long-term liabilities
Increase (Decrease) in Other Noncurrent Liabilities
Increase (Decrease) in Pension Plan Obligations
Increase (Decrease) in Pension Plan Obligations
Other - net
Other Operating Activities, Cash Flow Statement
Pension contribution
Pension and Other Postretirement Benefit Contributions
Net cash provided by operating activities
Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Operating Activities
Cash flows from investing activities:
Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Investing Activities [Abstract]
Property and equipment additions:
Payments to Acquire Productive Assets [Abstract]
Aircraft and aircraft purchase deposits
Payments for Flight Equipment
Other flight equipment
Payments to Acquire Other Productive Assets
Other property and equipment
Payments to Acquire Other Property, Plant, and Equipment
Total property and equipment additions
Payments to Acquire Property, Plant, and Equipment
Assets constructed for others (Terminal 6 at LAX)
Payments for Construction in Process
Sales and maturities of marketable securities
Proceeds from Sale and Maturity of Marketable Securities
Proceeds from disposition of assets and changes in restricted deposits
Payments for (Proceeds from) Other Investing Activities
Net cash used in investing activities
Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Investing Activities
Cash flows from financing activities:
Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Financing Activities [Abstract]
Proceeds from Issuance of Debt
Proceeds from Issuance of Debt
Proceeds from sale-leaseback transactions, net
Sale Leaseback Transaction, Gross Proceeds
Long-term debt payments
Repayments of Long-term Debt
Common stock repurchases
Payments for Repurchase of Common Stock
Payments of Dividends
Payments of Dividends
Proceeds and tax benefit from issuance of common stock
Proceeds from Issuance of Common Stock
Terminal 6 at LAX reimbursement
Sale Leaseback Transaction, Net Proceeds
Other financing activities
Proceeds from (Payments for) Other Financing Activities
Net cash used in financing activities
Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Financing Activities
Net increase (decrease) in cash and cash equivalents
Cash and Cash Equivalents, Period Increase (Decrease)
Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of year
Cash and Cash Equivalents, at Carrying Value
Cash and cash equivalents at end of year
Supplemental disclosure:
Supplemental Cash Flow Information [Abstract]
Cash paid during the year for:
Caid Paid Refunded [Abstract]
Caid Paid Refunded [Abstract]
Interest (net of amount capitalized)
Interest Paid, Net
Income taxes
Income Taxes Paid, Net
Statement of Stockholders' Equity [Abstract]
Statement, Equity Components [Axis]
Equity Components [Axis]
Equity Component [Domain]
Equity Component [Domain]
Common Stock
Common Stock [Member]
Capital in Excess of Par Value
Additional Paid-in Capital [Member]
Treasury Stock, at Cost
Treasury Stock [Member]
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Loss
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Member]
Retained Earnings
Retained Earnings [Member]
Increase (Decrease) in Stockholders' Equity [Roll Forward]
Increase (Decrease) in Stockholders' Equity [Roll Forward]
Stockholders' Equity
Stockholders' Equity Attributable to Parent
Common Stock Outstanding
Other comprehensive loss
Common stock repurchase (in shares)
Stock Repurchased During Period, Shares
Common stock repurchase
Stock Repurchased During Period, Value
Stock-based compensation
Adjustments to Additional Paid in Capital, Share-based Compensation, Requisite Service Period Recognition
Treasury stock issued under stock plans (in shares)
Stock Issued During Period, Shares, Treasury Stock Reissued
Treasury stock issued under stock plans
Stock Issued During Period, Value, Treasury Stock Reissued
Dividends, Cash
Dividends, Cash
Stock issued for employee stock purchase plan (in shares)
Stock Issued During Period, Shares, Employee Stock Purchase Plans
Stock issued for employee stock purchase plan
Stock Issued During Period, Value, Employee Stock Purchase Plan
Stock issued under stock plans (in shares)
Stock Issued During Period, Shares, Share-based Compensation, Net of Forfeitures
Stock issued under stock plans
Stock Issued During Period, Value, Share-based Compensation, Net of Forfeitures
Stockholders' Equity
Basis of Accounting, Policy [Policy Text Block]
New Accounting Pronouncements, Policy [Policy Text Block]
Defined Benefit Plan, Assets for Plan Benefits, Noncurrent
Defined Benefit Plan, Assets for Plan Benefits, Noncurrent
Pension and Other Postretirement Defined Benefit Plans, Liabilities [Abstract]
Accrued benefit liability-current
Pension and Other Postretirement Defined Benefit Plans, Current Liabilities
Accrued benefit liability-long term
Pension and Other Postretirement Defined Benefit Plans, Liabilities, Noncurrent
Total liability recognized
Pension and Other Postretirement Defined Benefit Plans, Liabilities
Pension and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans, Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), before Tax [Abstract]
Prior service cost (credit)
Pension and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans, Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net Prior Service Cost (Credit), before Tax
Net loss
Pension and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans, Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net Gains (Losses), before Tax
Amount recognized in AOCI (pretax)
Pension and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans, Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), before Tax
Travel credits for future travel
Travel credits for future travel
Travel credits for future travel
Negative cash balance
Bank Overdrafts
Allowance for all non-surplus expendable inventories
Inventory Valuation Reserves
Fuel inventory
Energy Related Inventory
Fair Value Disclosures [Abstract]
Fair Value, by Balance Sheet Grouping [Table]
Fair Value, by Balance Sheet Grouping [Table]
Fair Value, by Balance Sheet Grouping, Disclosure Item Amounts [Axis]
Measurement Basis [Axis]
Fair Value, Disclosure Item Amounts [Domain]
Fair Value Measurement [Domain]
Carrying Amount [Member]
Reported Value Measurement [Member]
Fair Value [Member]
Estimate of Fair Value Measurement [Member]
Fair Value, Balance Sheet Grouping, Financial Statement Captions [Line Items]
Fair Value, Balance Sheet Grouping, Financial Statement Captions [Line Items]
Long-term debt
Notes Payable, Fair Value Disclosure
Income Statement [Abstract]
Operating Revenues
Revenues [Abstract]
Passenger, Mainline
Passenger Revenue, Mainline
Passenger, Regional
Passenger Revenue, Regional
Total passenger revenue
Passenger Revenue
Freight and mail
Cargo and Freight Revenue
Other - net
Other Revenue, Net
Total Operating Revenues
Revenue, Net
Operating Expenses
Operating Expenses [Abstract]
Wages and benefits
Labor and Related Expense
Variable incentive pay
Other Labor-related Expenses
Aircraft fuel, including hedging gains and losses
Fuel Costs
Aircraft maintenance
Aircraft Maintenance, Materials, and Repairs
Aircraft rent
Aircraft Rental
Landing fees and other rentals
Landing Fees and Other Rentals
Contracted services
Professional and Contract Services Expense
Selling expenses
Selling Expense
Food and beverage service
Food and Beverage, Cost of Sales
Other
Other Cost and Expense, Operating
Fleet transition and restructuring related expenses
Restructuring, Settlement and Impairment Provisions
Total Operating Expenses
Operating Expenses
Operating Income
Operating Income (Loss)
Nonoperating income (expense)
Nonoperating Income (Expense) [Abstract]
Interest income
Investment Income, Interest
Interest expense
Interest Expense
Interest Costs Capitalized Adjustment
Interest Costs Capitalized Adjustment
Other - net
Other Nonoperating Income (Expense)
Nonoperating Income (Expense) Total
Nonoperating Income (Expense)
Income tax expense
Net Income
Basic Earnings Per Share:
Earnings Per Share, Basic
Diluted Earnings Per Share:
Earnings Per Share, Diluted
Shares used for computation:
Earnings Per Share [Abstract]
Basic
Weighted Average Number of Shares Outstanding, Basic
Diluted
Weighted Average Number of Shares Outstanding, Diluted
Common Stock, Dividends, Per Share, Declared
Common Stock, Dividends, Per Share, Declared
Schedule of Share-based Compensation Arrangements by Share-based Payment Award [Table]
Schedule of Share-based Compensation Arrangements by Share-based Payment Award [Table]
Schedule of Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Award Type [Axis]
Award Type [Axis]
Award Type [Domain]
Equity Award [Domain]
Stock options [Member]
Employee Stock Option [Member]
Stock awards [Member]
Restricted Stock [Member]
Deferred stock awards [Member]
Deferred Stock Awards [Member]
Deferred Stock Awards [Member]
Employee stock purchase plan [Member]
Employee Stock [Member]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Stock-based compensation
Allocated Share-based Compensation Expense
Tax benefit related to stock-based compensation
Employee Service Share-based Compensation, Tax Benefit from Compensation Expense
Unrecognized stock-based compensation for non-vested options and awards
Employee Service Share-based Compensation, Nonvested Awards, Compensation Cost Not yet Recognized
Unrecognized stock-based compensation awards weighted-average period
Employee Service Share-based Compensation, Nonvested Awards, Compensation Cost Not yet Recognized, Period for Recognition
Shares remaining available for future grants of either options or stock awards (in shares)
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Number of Shares Authorized
Shares authorized under stock-based compensation plans (in shares)
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Number of Shares Available for Grant
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Fair Value Assumptions and Methodology [Abstract]
Expected volatility
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Fair Value Assumptions, Expected Volatility Rate
Expected term
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Fair Value Assumptions, Expected Term
Risk-free interest rate
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Fair Value Assumptions, Risk Free Interest Rate
Expected dividend yield
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Fair Value Assumptions, Expected Dividend Rate
Weighted-average grant date fair value per share (in dollars per share)
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Grants in Period, Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value
Estimated fair value of options granted (millions)
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Grants in Period, Estimated Fair Value
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Grants in Period, Estimated Fair Value
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Outstanding [Roll Forward]
Outstanding, beginning balance (in shares)
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Outstanding, Number
Granted (in Shares)
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Grants in Period, Net of Forfeitures
Exercised (in shares)
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Exercises in Period
Forfeited or expired (in shares)
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Forfeitures and Expirations in Period
Outstanding, ending balance (in shares)
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Additional Disclosures [Abstract]
Outstanding, beginning balance, Weighted-Average Exercise Price Per Share (in dollars per share)
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Outstanding, Weighted Average Exercise Price
Outstanding, beginning balance, Weighted-Average Contractual Life
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Outstanding, Weighted Average Remaining Contractual Term
Outstanding, beginning balance, Aggregate Intrinsic Value
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Outstanding, Intrinsic Value
Granted, Weighted-Average Exercise Price Per Share (in dollars per share)
Share-based Compensation Arrangements by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Grants in Period, Weighted Average Exercise Price
Exercised, Weighted-Average Exercise Price Per Share (in dollars per share)
Share-based Compensation Arrangements by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Exercises in Period, Weighted Average Exercise Price
Fofeited or expired, Weighted-Average Exercise Price Per Share (in dollars per share)
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Forfeitures and Expirations in Period, Weighted Average Exercise Price
Outstanding, ending balance, Weighted-Average Exercise Price Per Share (in dollars per share)
Outstanding, ending balance, Weighted-Average Contractual Life
Outstanding, ending balance, Aggregate Intrinsic Value
Exercisable, Outstanding (in shares)
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Exercisable, Number
Exercisable, Weighted-Average Exercise Price Per Share (in dollars per share)
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Exercisable, Weighted Average Exercise Price
Exercisable, Weighted-Average Contractual Life
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Exercisable, Weighted Average Remaining Contractual Term
Exercisable, Aggregate Intrinsic Value
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Exercisable, Intrinsic Value
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Vested and Expected to Vest [Abstract]
Vested or expected to vest, Shares
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Vested and Expected to Vest, Outstanding, Number
Vested or expected to vest, Weighted-Average Exercise Price Per Share (in dollars per share)
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Vested and Expected to Vest, Outstanding, Weighted Average Exercise Price
Vested or expected to vest, Weighted-Average Contractual Life
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Vested and Expected to Vest, Outstanding, Weighted Average Remaining Contractual Term
Vested or expected to vest, Aggregate Intrinsic Value
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Vested and Expected to Vest, Outstanding, Aggregate Intrinsic Value
Intrinsic value of option exercises
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Exercises in Period, Intrinsic Value
Cash received from stock option exercises
Employee Service Share-based Compensation, Cash Received from Exercise of Stock Options
Tax benefit related to stock option exercises
Deferred Tax Expense from Stock Options Exercised
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Nonvested, Number of Shares [Roll Forward]
Non-vested, beginning balance (in shares)
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Nonvested, Number
Granted (in shares)
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Grants in Period
Vested (in shares)
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Vested in Period
Forfeited (in shares)
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Forfeited in Period
Non-vested, ending balance (in shares)
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Additional Disclosures [Abstract]
Non-vested, beginning balance, Weighted-Average Grant Date Fair Value (in dollars per share)
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Nonvested, Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value
Non-vested, beginning balance, Weighted-Average Contractual Life
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Outstanding, Weighted Average Remaining Contractual Terms
Non-vested, beginning balance, Total Instrinsic Value (in dollars)
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Nonvested, Total Intrinsic Value
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Nonvested, Total Intrinsic Value
Granted, Weighted-Average Grant Date Fair Value (in dollars per share)
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Grants in Period, Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value
Vested, Weighted-Average Grant Date Fair Value (in dollars per share)
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Vested in Period, Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value
Forfeited, Weighted-Average Grant Date Fair Value (in dollars per share)
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Forfeitures, Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value
Non-vested, ending balance, Weighted-Average Price Per Share (in dollars per share)
Non-vested, ending balance, Weighted-Average Contractual Life
Non-vested, ending balance, Total Instrinsic Value (in dollars)
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Purchase Price of Common Stock, Percent
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Maximum Employee Subscription Rate
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Vested in Period, Fair Value
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Vested in Period, Fair Value
Excess of tax over book depreciation
Deferred Tax Liabilities, Property, Plant and Equipment
Other—net
Deferred Tax Liabilities, Other
Gross deferred tax liabilities
Deferred Tax Liabilities, Net
Mileage Plan
Deferred Tax Assets, Mileage Plan
Deferred Tax Assets, Mileage Plan
AMT and other tax credits
Deferred Tax Assets, Tax Credit Carryforwards
Inventory obsolescence
Deferred Tax Assets, Inventory
Deferred gains
Deferred Tax Assets, Deferred Income
Employee benefits
Deferred Tax Assets, Tax Deferred Expense, Compensation and Benefits
Fuel hedge contracts
Deferred Tax Assets, Derivative Instruments
Other—net
Deferred Tax Assets, Other
Gross deferred tax assets
Deferred Tax Assets, Gross
Net deferred tax liabilities
Deferred Tax Assets, Net
Current deferred tax asset
Deferred Tax Assets, Net, Current
Noncurrent deferred tax liability
Deferred Tax Assets, Net, Noncurrent
Dividends [Abstract]
Dividends, Cash
Schedule of Treasury Stock by Class [Table Text Block]
Class of Treasury Stock [Table Text Block]
Schedule of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Table Text Block]
Schedule of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Table Text Block]
Schedule of Property, Plant and Equipment [Table]
Property, Plant and Equipment [Table]
B737
Property, Plant and Equipment by Type [Axis]
Property, Plant and Equipment, Type [Domain]
Aircraft [Member]
Buildings [Member]
Minor building and land improvements [Member]
Minor Building and Land Improvements [Member]
Minor Building and Land Improvements [Member]
Computer hardware and software [Member]
Technology Equipment [Member]
Other furniture and equipment [Member]
Office Equipment [Member]
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Estimated useful life
Property, Plant and Equipment, Useful Life
Statement of Financial Position [Abstract]
Class of Stock [Axis]
Class of Stock [Axis]
Class of Stock [Domain]
Class of Stock [Domain]
ASSETS
Assets [Abstract]
Current Assets
Assets, Current [Abstract]
Cash and cash equivalents
Marketable securities
Marketable Securities, Current
Total cash and marketable securities
Cash, Cash Equivalents, and Short-term Investments
Receivables - less allowance for doubtful accounts of $0 and $1
Receivables, Net, Current
Inventories and supplies - net
Inventory, Net
Deferred income taxes
Deferred Tax Assets, Net of Valuation Allowance, Current
Fuel hedge contracts
Derivative Instruments and Hedges, Assets
Prepaid expenses and other current assets
Prepaid Expense and Other Assets, Current
Total Current Assets
Assets, Current
Property and Equipment
Property, Plant and Equipment, Net [Abstract]
Aircraft and other flight equipment
Flight Equipment, Gross
Other property and equipment
Property, Plant and Equipment, Other, Gross
Deposits for future flight equipment
Deposits on Flight Equipment
Property and Equipment Total
Property, Plant and Equipment, Gross
Less accumulated depreciation and amortization
Accumulated Depreciation, Depletion and Amortization, Property, Plant, and Equipment
Total Property and Equipment - Net
Property, Plant and Equipment, Net
Fuel Hedge Contracts
Derivative Instruments and Hedges, Noncurrent
Other Assets
Other Assets, Noncurrent
Total Assets
Assets
LIABILITIES AND SHAREHOLDERS' EQUITY
Liabilities and Equity [Abstract]
Current Liabilities
Liabilities, Current [Abstract]
Accounts payable
Accounts Payable, Current
Accrued aircraft rent
Capital Lease Obligations, Current
Accrued wages, vacation and payroll taxes
Employee-related Liabilities, Current
Other accrued liabilities
Accrued Liabilities, Current
Air traffic liability
Deferred Air Traffic Revenue, Current
Current portion of long-term debt
Debt, Current
Total Current Liabilities
Liabilities, Current
Long-Term Debt, Net of Current Portion
Long-term Debt, Excluding Current Maturities
Other Liabilities and Credits
Liabilities, Noncurrent [Abstract]
Deferred income taxes
Deferred Tax Liabilities, Net, Noncurrent
Deferred revenue
Deferred Revenue
Obligation for pension and postretirement medical benefits
Other liabilities
Other Liabilities, Noncurrent
Other Liabilities and Credits Totals
Liabilities, Noncurrent
Commitments and Contingencies
Commitments and Contingencies
Shareholders' Equity
Stockholders' Equity, Number of Shares, Par Value and Other Disclosures [Abstract]
Preferred stock, $1 par value Authorized: 5,000,000 shares, none issued or outstanding
Preferred Stock, Value, Issued
Common stock, $1 par value Authorized: 100,000,000 shares, Issued: 2013 - 68,766,691 shares; 2012 - 70,376,543 shares, Outstanding: 2013 - 68,745,953 shares; 2012 - 70,376,543 shares
Common Stock, Value, Issued
Capital in excess of par value
Additional Paid in Capital, Common Stock
Treasury stock (common), at cost: 2013 - 20,738 shares; 2012 - 0 shares
Treasury Stock, Value
Retained earnings
Retained Earnings (Accumulated Deficit)
Shareholders' Equity Total
Total Liabilities and Shareholders' Equity
Liabilities and Equity
Subsequent Events [Abstract]
Subsequent Event [Table]
Subsequent Event [Table]
Subsequent Event Type [Axis]
Subsequent Event Type [Axis]
Subsequent Event Type [Domain]
Subsequent Event Type [Domain]
Subsequent Event [Line Items]
Subsequent Event [Line Items]
DividendIncrease
DividendIncrease
DividendIncrease
Benefit obligation
Defined Benefit Plan, Change in Benefit Obligation [Roll Forward]
Beginning of year
Defined Benefit Plan, Benefit Obligation
Actuarial (gain) loss
Defined Benefit Plan, Actuarial Gain (Loss)
Benefits paid
Defined Benefit Plan, Benefits Paid
End of year
Accumulated benefit obligation
Defined Benefit Plan, Accumulated Benefit Obligation
Plan assets at fair value
Defined Benefit Plan, Change in Fair Value of Plan Assets [Roll Forward]
Beginning of year
Defined Benefit Plan, Fair Value of Plan Assets
Actual return on plan assets
Defined Benefit Plan, Actual Return on Plan Assets
Employer contributions
Defined Benefit Plan, Contributions by Employer
End of year
Funded status (unfunded)
Defined Benefit Plan, Funded Status of Plan
Percent funded
Defined Benefit Plan, Funded Percentage
Defined Benefit Plan by Plan Asset Categories [Axis]
Defined Benefit Plan, Asset Categories [Axis]
Plan Asset Categories [Domain]
Plan Asset Categories [Domain]
Money market funds [Member]
Money Market Funds [Member]
Equity funds [Member]
Equity Funds [Member]
Credit bond index fund [Member]
Credit bond index fund [Member]
Credit bond index fund
Fixed Income Funds [Member]
Fixed Income Funds [Member]
Government and credit bond index funds [Member]
Government And Credit Bond Fund [Member]
Government And Credit Bond Fund [Member]
Investment Geographic Region [Axis]
Investment Geographic Region [Domain]
U.S.
UNITED STATES
Non-U.S. [Member]
Non United States [Member]
Non United States [Member]
Fair Value, Hierarchy [Axis]
Fair Value, Hierarchy [Axis]
Fair Value, Measurements, Fair Value Hierarchy [Domain]
Fair Value Hierarchy [Domain]
Level 1 [Member]
Fair Value, Inputs, Level 1 [Member]
Level 2 [Member]
Fair Value, Inputs, Level 2 [Member]
Plan asset allocations
Defined Benefit Plan, Actual Plan Asset Allocations
Percent, an individual equity investment will not exceed of the entire equity portfolio
Defined Benefit Plan, Individual Equity Investment Percent of Total Assets, Maximum Allowable
Defined Benefit Plan, Individual Equity Investment Percent of Total Assets, Maximum Allowable
Defined Benefit Plan, Assets, Target Allocations [Abstract]
Equities, Range Minimum
Defined Benefit Plan, Target Plan Asset Allocations Range Minimum
Equities, Range Maximum
Defined Benefit Plan, Target Plan Asset Allocations Range Maximum
Plan Assets
Total expense for the defined-contribution plans
Defined Contribution Plan, Cost Recognized
Prior service credit
Defined Benefit Plan, Future Amortization of Prior Service Cost (Credit)
Net loss
Defined Benefit Plan, Future Amortization of Gain (Loss)
Change in service and interest cost, 1% higher trend rate
Defined Benefit Plan, Effect of One Percentage Point Increase on Service and Interest Cost Components
Change in service and interes cost, 1% lower trend rate
Defined Benefit Plan, Effect of One Percentage Point Decrease on Service and Interest Cost Components
Change in year-end postretirement benefit obligation, 1% higher trend rate
Defined Benefit Plan, Effect of One Percentage Point Increase on Accumulated Postretirement Benefit Obligation
Change in year-end postretirement benefit obligation, 1% lower trend rate
Defined Benefit Plan, Effect of One Percentage Point Decrease on Accumulated Postretirement Benefit Obligation
CASH, CASH EQUIVALENTS AND MARKETABLE SECURITIES - MATURITIES [Abstract]
CASH, CASH EQUIVALENTS AND MARKETABLE SECURITIES - MATURITIES [Abstract]
Schedule of Debt Investment Maturities [Table]
Schedule of Debt Investment Maturities [Table]
Schedule of Debt Investment Maturities
Schedule of Debt Investment Maturities [Line Items]
Schedule of Debt Investment Maturities [Line Items]
[Line Items] for Schedule of Debt Investment Maturities
Cost Basis [Abstract]
Available-for-sale Securities, Debt Maturities, Amortized Cost Basis, Rolling Maturity [Abstract]
Due in one year or less
Available-for-sale Securities, Debt Maturities, Next Rolling Twelve Months, Amortized Cost Basis
Due after one year through five years
Available-for-sale Securities, Debt Maturities, Rolling Year Two Through Five, Amortized Cost Basis
Due after five years through 10 years
Available-for-sale Securities, Debt Maturities, Rolling Year Six Through Ten, Amortized Cost Basis
Marketable securities, Cost Basis
Available-for-sale Securities, Amortized Cost Basis
Fair Value [Abstract]
Available-for-sale Securities, Debt Maturities, Fair Value, Rolling Maturity [Abstract]
Due in one year or less
Available-for-sale Securities, Debt Maturities, Next Rolling Twelve Months, Fair Value
Due after one year through five years
Available-for-sale Securities, Debt Maturities, Rolling Year Two Through Five, Fair Value
Due after five years through 10 years
Available-for-sale Securities, Debt Maturities, Rolling Year Six Through Ten, Fair Value
Marketable securities, Fair Value
Available-for-sale Securities, Current
INCOME TAXES
Income Tax Disclosure [Text Block]
Defined Benefit Plans and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans Disclosures [Table]
Defined Benefit Plans and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans Disclosures [Table]
Defined Benefit Plans and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans Table Text Block [Line Items]
Defined Benefit Plans and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans Table Text Block [Line Items]
Schedule of Allocation of Plan Assets [Table Text Block]
Schedule of Allocation of Plan Assets [Table Text Block]
Schedule of Net Funded Status [Table Text Block]
Schedule of Net Funded Status [Table Text Block]
Schedule of Amounts Recognized in Balance Sheet [Table Text Block]
Schedule of Amounts Recognized in Balance Sheet [Table Text Block]
Schedule of Net Benefit Costs [Table Text Block]
Schedule of Net Benefit Costs [Table Text Block]
Schedule of Expected Benefit Payments [Table Text Block]
Schedule of Expected Benefit Payments [Table Text Block]
Schedule of Effect of One-Percentage-Point Change in Assumed Health Care Cost Trend Rates [Table Text Block]
Schedule of Effect of One-Percentage-Point Change in Assumed Health Care Cost Trend Rates [Table Text Block]
Organization and Basis of Accounting, Policy [Policy Text Block]
Basis of Accounting, Policy [Policy Text Block]
Cash and Cash Equivalents, Policy [Policy Text Block]
Cash and Cash Equivalents, Policy [Policy Text Block]
Marketable Securities, Available-for-sale Securities, Policy [Policy Text Block]
Marketable Securities, Available-for-sale Securities, Policy [Policy Text Block]
Receivables, Policy [Policy Text Block]
Receivables, Policy [Policy Text Block]
Inventory, Policy [Policy Text Block]
Inventory, Policy [Policy Text Block]
Property, Plant and Equipment, Policy [Policy Text Block]
Property, Plant and Equipment, Policy [Policy Text Block]
Internal Use Software, Policy [Policy Text Block]
Internal Use Software, Policy [Policy Text Block]
Revenue Recognition, Deferred Revenue [Policy Text Block]
Revenue Recognition, Deferred Revenue [Policy Text Block]
Lease, Policy [Policy Text Block]
Lease, Policy [Policy Text Block]
Leased Aircraft Return Costs [Policy Text Block]
Leased Aircraft Return Costs [Policy Text Block]
Leased Aircraft Return Costs [Policy Text Block]
Revenue Recognition, Policy [Policy Text Block]
Revenue Recognition, Policy [Policy Text Block]
Frequent Flier Program, Policy [Policy Text Block]
Frequent Flier Program, Policy [Policy Text Block]
Advertising Cost, Policy, Expensed Advertising Cost [Policy Text Block]
Advertising Cost, Policy, Expensed Advertising Cost [Policy Text Block]
Derivatives, Policy [Policy Text Block]
Derivatives, Policy [Policy Text Block]
Fair Value of Financial Instruments, Policy [Policy Text Block]
Fair Value of Financial Instruments, Policy [Policy Text Block]
Income Tax, Policy [Policy Text Block]
Income Tax, Policy [Policy Text Block]
Share-based Compensation, Option and Incentive Plans Policy [Policy Text Block]
Share-based Compensation, Option and Incentive Plans Policy [Policy Text Block]
Earnings Per Share Policy, Diluted
Earnings Per Share Policy, Diluted
FAIR VALUE MEASUREMENTS
Fair Value Disclosures [Text Block]
Leased aircraft return costs
Leased Aircraft Return Costs
Leased Aircraft Return Costs
DERIVATIVE INSTRUMENTS
Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities Disclosure [Text Block]
Schedule of Prospective Adoption of New Accounting Pronouncements [Table Text Block]
Schedule of Prospective Adoption of New Accounting Pronouncements [Table Text Block]
SHAREHOLDER'S EQUITY
Stockholders' Equity Note Disclosure [Text Block]
Schedule of Long-term Debt Instruments [Table Text Block]
Schedule of Long-term Debt Instruments [Table Text Block]
Schedule of Maturities of Long-term Debt [Table Text Block]
Schedule of Maturities of Long-term Debt [Table Text Block]
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Table]
Fair Value Measurements, Recurring and Nonrecurring [Table]
Major Types of Debt and Equity Securities [Axis]
Major Types of Debt and Equity Securities [Domain]
U.S. government and agency securities [Member]
US Treasury and Government [Member]
Foreign government bonds [Member]
Foreign Government Debt Securities [Member]
Asset-back securities [Member]
Asset-backed Securities, Securitized Loans and Receivables [Member]
Mortgage-back securities [Member]
Collateralized Mortgage Backed Securities [Member]
Corporate notes and bonds [Member]
Corporate Debt Securities [Member]
Municipal securities [Member]
US States and Political Subdivisions Debt Securities [Member]
Fair Value by Measurement Frequency [Axis]
Measurement Frequency [Axis]
Fair Value, Measurement Frequency [Domain]
Fair Value, Measurement Frequency [Domain]
Recurring [Member]
Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member]
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Available-for-sale Securities, Current
Marketable securities
Available-for-sale Securities
Derivative instruments, assets
Derivative Asset
Derivative instruments, liabilities
Derivative Liability
Allowance for doubtful accounts
Allowance for Doubtful Accounts Receivable, Current
Stockholders' Equity:
Stockholders' Equity Attributable to Parent [Abstract]
Preferred Stock, par value
Preferred Stock, Par or Stated Value Per Share
Preferred stock, shares authorized
Preferred Stock, Shares Authorized
Preferred stock, shares issued
Preferred Stock, Shares Issued
Preferred stock, shares outstanding
Preferred Stock, Shares Outstanding
Common stock, par value
Common Stock, Par or Stated Value Per Share
Common stock, shares authorized
Common Stock, Shares Authorized
Common stock, shares issued
Common Stock, Shares, Issued
Common Stock, Shares, Outstanding
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Discount from Market Price, Purchase Date
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Discount from Market Price, Purchase Date
2014
Defined Benefit Plan, Expected Future Benefit Payments, Next Twelve Months
2015
Defined Benefit Plan, Expected Future Benefit Payments, Year Two
2016
Defined Benefit Plan, Expected Future Benefit Payments, Year Three
2017
Defined Benefit Plan, Expected Future Benefit Payments, Year Four
2018
Defined Benefit Plan, Expected Future Benefit Payments, Year Five
2019 - 2023
Defined Benefit Plan, Expected Future Benefit Payments, Five Fiscal Years Thereafter
GENERAL AND SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES
Significant Accounting Policies [Text Block]
Schedule of Stock by Class [Table]
Schedule of Stock by Class [Table]
Share Repurchase Program [Axis]
Share Repurchase Program [Axis]
Share Repurchase Program [Domain]
Share Repurchase Program [Domain]
$250 million Repurchase Program [Member]
$250 million Repurchase Program [Member]
$250 million Repurchase Program
February 2012 Stock Repurchase Program [Member]
February 2012 Stock Repurchase Program [Member]
February 2012 Stock Repurchase Program [Member]
June 2011 Stock Repurchase Program [Member]
June 2011 Stock Repurchase Program [Member]
June 2011 Stock Repurchase Program [Member]
June 2010 Stock Repurchase Program [Member]
June 2010 Stock Repurchase Program [Member]
June 2010 Stock Repurchase Program [Member]
Share repurchase program, authorized amount
Stock Repurchase Program, Authorized Amount
Common stock repurchase (in shares)
Common stock repurchase
Schedule of Segment Reporting Information, by Segment [Table]
Schedule of Segment Reporting Information, by Segment [Table]
Statement, Business Segments [Axis]
Segments [Axis]
Segment [Domain]
Segments [Domain]
Air Group Adjusted [Member]
Air Group Adjusted [Member]
Air Group Adjusted [Member]
Alaska Airlines [Member]
Alaska Airlines [Member]
Alaska Airlines [Member]
Alaska Mainline [Member]
Alaska Mainline [Member]
Alaska Mainline [Member]
Alaska Regional [Member]
Alaska Regional [Member]
Alaska Regional [Member]
Horizon [Member]
Parent [Member]
Segment Reconciling Items [Member]
Intersegment Eliminations
Intersegment Eliminations [Member]
Special Charges [Member]
Special Charges [Member]
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Operating revenues
Passenger, Mainline
Passenger, Regional
Total passenger revenue
CPA revenues
Revenues
Other Net and Special Revenue
Other Net and Special Revenue
Other Net and Special Revenue
Operating expenses
Operating expenses, excluding fuel
Operating Expenses, Excluding Fuel
Operating Expenses, Excluding Fuel
Economic fuel
Other
Other Nonoperating Income Expense Other
Other Nonoperating Income Expense Other
Income (loss) before income tax
Depreciation
Capital expenditures
Total assets
Pilot Long-term Disability Benefits [Member]
Pilot Long-term Disability Benefits [Member]
Total liability net of a prefunded trust account
Other Deferred Compensation Arrangements, Liability, Classified, Noncurrent
Prefunded trust account
Prefunded Trust Account
Prefunded Trust Account
Schedule of Derivative Instruments in Statement of Financial Position, Fair Value [Table Text Block]
Schedule of Derivative Instruments in Statement of Financial Position, Fair Value [Table Text Block]
Schedule of Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) in Statement of Financial Performance [Table Text Block]
Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) [Table Text Block]
Operational Performance Rewards Program entitles all Air Group employees to maximum quarterly payouts (in dollars per quarter)
Quarterly Payout to Employee, Under Employee Incentive Plan, Maximum
Quarterly Payout to Employee, Under Employee Incentive Plan, Maximum
COMMITMENTS
Commitments Disclosure [Text Block]
CONTINGENCIES
Contingencies Disclosure [Text Block]
Schedule of Available-for-sale Securities [Table]
Schedule of Available-for-sale Securities [Table]
Major Types of Debt and Equity Securities [Domain]
Schedule of Available-for-sale Securities [Line Items]
Schedule of Available-for-sale Securities [Line Items]
Cash and Cash Equivalents [Abstract]
Cash
Cash
Money Market Funds, at Carrying Value
Money Market Funds, at Carrying Value
Cash equivalents
Cash Equivalents, at Carrying Value
Cash and cash equivalents
Available-for-sale Securities, Current [Abstract]
Marketable securities, Cost Basis
Marketable securities, Unrealized Gains
Available-for-sale Securities, Gross Unrealized Gain
Marketable securities, Unrealized Losses
Available-for-sale Securities, Gross Unrealized Loss
Cash and marketables securities, Cost Basis
Total Cash And Marketable Securities, Amortized Cost Basis
Total Cash And Marketable Securities, Amortized Cost Basis
Available-for-sale Securities, Activity [Abstract]
Available-for-sale Securities, Activity [Abstract]
Proceeds from sales and maturities
Available-for-sale Securities, Gross Realized Gains (Losses), Sale Proceeds
Gross realized gains
Available-for-sale Securities, Gross Realized Gains
Gross realized losses
Available-for-sale Securities, Gross Realized Losses
Other-than-temporary impairments on investments
Other than Temporary Impairment Losses, Investments, Available-for-sale Securities
New Accounting Pronouncements and Changes in Accounting Principles [Text Block]
New Accounting Pronouncements and Changes in Accounting Principles [Text Block]
Schedule Of Mileage Plan Liabilities [Table]
Schedule of Mileage Plan [Table]
Schedule of Mileage Plan [Table]
Mileage Plan [Axis]
Mileage Plan [Axis]
Mileage Plan [Axis]
Mileage Plan [Member]
Mileage Plan [Member]
Mileage Plan [Member].
Liabilities From Mileage Plan [Member]
Liabilities From Mileage Plan [Member]
Liabilities From Mileage Plan [Member]
Revenue From Mileage Plan [Member]
Revenue From Mileage Plan [Member]
Revenue From Mileage Plan [Member]
Mileage Plan [Line Items]
Mileage Plan [Line Items]
Mileage Plan [Line Items]
Liabilities
Liabilities
Deferred revenue from Mileage Plan awards issued but not yet flown
Deferred Revenue, Mileage Plan Awards, Issued but not Yet Flown
Deferred Revenue, Mileage Plan Awards, Issued but not Yet Flown
Passenger revenues
Other-net revenues
Commission revenue
Commission Revenue
Commission Revenue
Rate of Compensation Increase [Axis]
Rate of Compensation Increase [Axis]
Rate of Compensation Increase
Rate of Compensation Increase [Domain]
Rate of Compensation Increase [Domain]
[Domain] for Rate of Compensation Increase
First Four Years of Employment [Member]
First Four Years of Employment [Member]
First Four Years of Employment
Employment after First Four Years [Member]
Employment after First Four Years [Member]
Employment after First Four Years
Type of Healthcare Costs [Axis]
Type of Healthcare Costs [Axis]
Type of Healthcare Costs [Axis]
Type of Healthcare Costs [Domain]
Type of Healthcare Costs [Domain]
Type of Healthcare Costs [Domain]
Medical, Prescription Drugs and Dental Costs [Member]
Medical, Prescription Drugs and Dental Costs [Member]
Medical, Prescription Drugs and Dental Costs [Member]
Medical Cost [Member]
Medical Cost [Member]
Medical Cost [Member]
Prescription Drug Costs [Member]
Prescription Drug Costs [Member]
Prescription Drug Costs [Member]
Dental Costs [Member]
Dental Costs [Member]
Dental Costs [Member]
Vision Costs [Member]
Vision Costs [Member]
Vision Costs [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan, Weighted Average Assumptions Used in Calculating Benefit Obligation [Abstract]
Benefit obligations, Weighted-average discount rate
Defined Benefit Plan, Assumptions Used Calculating Benefit Obligation, Discount Rate
Benefit obligations, Rate of compensation increase
Defined Benefit Plan, Assumptions Used Calculating Benefit Obligation, Rate of Compensation Increase
Defined Benefit Plan, Weighted Average Assumptions Used in Calculating Net Periodic Benefit Cost [Abstract]
Net period benefit costs, Weighted-average discount rate
Defined Benefit Plan, Assumptions Used Calculating Net Periodic Benefit Cost, Discount Rate
Net period benefit costs, Weighted-average expected return on assets
Defined Benefit Plan, Assumptions Used Calculating Net Periodic Benefit Cost, Expected Long-term Return on Assets
Net period benefit costs, Rate of compensation increase
Defined Benefit Plan, Assumptions Used Calculating Net Periodic Benefit Cost, Rate of Compensation Increase
Net period benefit costs, Assumed health care cost trend rate
Defined Benefit Plan, Health Care Cost Trend Rate Assumed for Next Fiscal Year
Net period benefit costs, Ultimate assumed trend rate
Defined Benefit Plan, Ultimate Health Care Cost Trend Rate
Defined Benefit Plan, Year that Rate Reaches Ultimate Trend Rate
Defined Benefit Plan, Year that Rate Reaches Ultimate Trend Rate
CASH, CASH EQUIVALENTS AND MARKETABLE SECURITIES
Cash, Cash Equivalents, and Marketable Securities [Text Block]
Schedule of Compensation Cost for Share-based Payment Arrangements, Allocation of Share-based Compensation Costs by Plan [Table Text Block]
Schedule of Compensation Cost for Share-based Payment Arrangements, Allocation of Share-based Compensation Costs by Plan [Table Text Block]
Schedule of Unrecognized Compensation Cost, Nonvested Awards [Table Text Block]
Schedule of Unrecognized Compensation Cost, Nonvested Awards [Table Text Block]
Schedule of Share-based Payment Award, Stock Options, Valuation Assumptions [Table Text Block]
Schedule of Share-based Payment Award, Stock Options, Valuation Assumptions [Table Text Block]
Schedule of Share-based Compensation, Stock Options, Activity [Table Text Block]
Schedule of Share-based Compensation, Stock Options, Activity [Table Text Block]
Schedule of Share-based Compensation, Restricted Stock Units Award Activity [Table Text Block]
Schedule of Share-based Compensation, Restricted Stock Units Award Activity [Table Text Block]
Schedule of Long-term Debt Instruments [Table]
Schedule of Long-term Debt Instruments [Table]
Debt Instrument [Axis]
Debt Instrument [Axis]
Debt Instrument, Name [Domain]
Debt Instrument, Name [Domain]
Fixed-rate notes payable due through 2024 [Member]
Fixed rate notes payable due through 2024 [Member]
Fixed rate notes payable due through 2024
Variable-rate notes payable due through 2023 [Member]
Variable rate notes payable due through 2024 [Member]
Variable rate notes payable due through 2024 [Member]
Scheduled debt payments [Member]
Scheduled Debt Payments [Member]
Scheduled Debt Payments [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Long-term Debt
Long-term Debt
Less current portion
Long-term Debt, Current Maturities
Long-term debt, net of current portion
Weighted-average variable-interest rate
Long-term Debt, Percentage Bearing Fixed Interest, Percentage Rate
Weighted-average variable-interest rate
Long-term Debt, Percentage Bearing Variable Interest, Percentage Rate
Debt payments
Debt Instrument, Periodic Payment
Long-term Debt, Fiscal Year Maturity [Abstract]
2014
Long-term Debt, Maturities, Repayments of Principal in Next Twelve Months
2015
Long-term Debt, Maturities, Repayments of Principal in Year Two
2016
Long-term Debt, Maturities, Repayments of Principal in Year Three
2017
Long-term Debt, Maturities, Repayments of Principal in Year Four
2018
Long-term Debt, Maturities, Repayments of Principal in Year Five
Thereafter
Long-term Debt, Maturities, Repayments of Principal after Year Five
Fair Value, by Balance Sheet Grouping [Table Text Block]
Fair Value, by Balance Sheet Grouping [Table Text Block]
Schedule of Deferred Tax Assets and Liabilities [Table Text Block]
Schedule of Deferred Tax Assets and Liabilities [Table Text Block]
Schedule of Components of Income Tax Expense (Benefit) [Table Text Block]
Schedule of Components of Income Tax Expense (Benefit) [Table Text Block]
Schedule of Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation [Table Text Block]
Schedule of Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation [Table Text Block]
Summary of Income Tax Contingencies [Table Text Block]
Summary of Income Tax Contingencies [Table Text Block]