Partners' Capital Notes [Abstract]
Partners' Capital and Distributions [Table]
Partners' Capital and Distributions [Table]
Disclosure reflecting information pertaining to Partners' Capital and related distributions.
Limited Partners' Capital Account by Class [Axis]
Limited Partners' Capital Account by Class [Axis]
Limited Partners' Capital Account, Class [Domain]
Limited Partners' Capital Account, Class [Domain]
Series A Preferred Units
Seriesa Preferred Units [Member]
Series A preferred units representing limited partner interests in the entity that rank pari passu with Series B preferred units, and senior to our common units and to each other classes or series of our equity securities with respect to distribution rights and rights upon liquidation and are convertible into common units by the holder or the entity under certain conditions.
Series B Preferred Units
Series B Preferred Stock [Member]
Scenario [Axis]
Scenario [Axis]
Scenario, Unspecified [Domain]
Scenario, Unspecified [Domain]
Forecast
Scenario, Forecast [Member]
Partners Capital and Distributions
Partners Capital and Distribution [Line Items]
No definition available.
Sale of Series A preferred units (in units)
Partners' Capital Account, Units, Sold in Private Placement
Sale of units, price per unit (in dollars per unit)
Partners' Capital Account, Sale of Units, Price Per Unit
Price per unit of partnership interest sold during the period.
Transaction fee due to purchasers
Partners' Capital Account, Private Placement of Units, Transaction Fee Due to Purchasers, Percentage
The percentage transaction fee due to purchasers of units of limited partnership interest issued in a private placement.
Net proceeds from sale of Series A preferred units
Partners' Capital Account, Private Placement of Units
Quarterly distributions per unit (in dollars per unit)
Preferred Units, Quarterly Distributions Per Unit
The quarterly distributions per unit to which holders of the preferred units are entitled.
Annualized distribution rate (in dollars per unit)
Preferred Units, Annualized Distributions Per Unit
The annualized distributions per unit to which holders of the preferred units are entitled.
Series A preferred unit conversion ratio
Preferred Units, Conversion Ratio
Ratio applied to the conversion of preferred units into common units.
Common unit closing price as a percentage of Issue Price, over which the entity has conversion option
Preferred Units, Convertible, Threshold Percentage for Common Unit Price Trigger
The closing price of the partnership's common units as a percentage of the Issue Price of the preferred units that must be exceeded for a certain period of days in order for the entity to convert the preferred units, subject to minimum time requirements and certain minimum conversion amounts.
Period for closing price of common units to be above threshold, to trigger conversion option
Preferred Units, Convertible, Threshold Consecutive Trading Days
Threshold period of specified consecutive trading days for which the closing price of the partnership's common units must be above a specified level to trigger the conversion option by the entity.
Period after fifth and subsequent anniversaries of issuance for Distribution Rate Resets
Preferred Units, Period After Fifth and Subsequent Anniversaries for Distribution Rate Reset
Period following the fifth and each subsequent anniversary of the issuance date of the preferred units, within which the holders of the preferred units may elect to reset the preferred unit distribution rate.
Number of distribution rate reset elections allowed
Preferred Units, Number of Distribution Rate Reset Elections Allowed
The number of times the holders of the preferred units may elect to reset the preferred unit distribution rate.
Distribution rate reset, basis spread on variable rate
Preferred Units, Distribution Rate Reset, Basis Spread on Variable Rate
The percentage points to be added to the applicable rate of the ten-year U.S. Treasury to calculate the new distribution rate on the preferred units if the holders elect to reset the distribution rate.
Period after sixth anniversary of issuance, after which units may be redeemed if distribution rate has been reset
Preferred Units, Period after Sixth Anniversary for Commencement of Redemption Option
Period following the sixth anniversary of the issuance date of the preferred units, after which the entity may choose to redeem all or a portion of the outstanding preferred units, if the holders of the preferred units have exercised a distribution rate reset.
Value of common units if exchanged for redemption of preferred units, as a percentage of average price
Preferred Unit Redemption, Percentage of Common Unit Average Price
The percentage of the volume-weighted average price of the partnership's common units for a specified trading period, at which such common units are valued if given in exchange for the redemption of the preferred units.
Redemption price as a percentage of Issue Price
Preferred Units, Redemption Price as a Percentage of Issue Price
The price at which the preferred units may be redeemed, as a percentage of the issue price of the units.
Sale of Series B preferred units (in units)
Partners' Capital Account, Units, Sold in Public Offering
Net proceeds from the sale of Series B preferred units
Partners' Capital Account, Public Sale of Units
Liquidation preference (in dollars per unit)
Preferred Stock, Liquidation Preference Per Share
Distribution rate percentage
Preferred Stock, Dividend Rate, Percentage
Distribution rate per unit
Preferred Stock, Dividend Rate, Per-Dollar-Amount
Percentage spread on top of LIBOR for distribution
Distribution Percentage Spread
Percentage spread that will be added to the then-current three-month LIBOR to determine the distribution that will be paid.
Redemption price (in dollars per unit)
Preferred Stock, Redemption Price Per Share
Redemption price percentage
Preferred Stock, Redemption Price Percentage
Redemption price as a percentage of the liquidation preference.
Segment Reporting [Abstract]
Schedule of Revenues from External Customers and Long-Lived Assets [Table]
Schedule of Revenues from External Customers and Long-Lived Assets [Table]
Geographical [Axis]
Geographical [Axis]
Geographical [Domain]
Geographical [Domain]
United States
UNITED STATES
Canada
CANADA
Geographic Data
Revenues from External Customers and Long-Lived Assets [Line Items]
Revenues
Revenues
Long-lived assets
Long-Lived Assets
Risks and Uncertainties [Abstract]
Concentration Risk [Table]
Concentration Risk [Table]
Concentration Risk Benchmark [Axis]
Concentration Risk Benchmark [Axis]
Concentration Risk Benchmark [Domain]
Concentration Risk Benchmark [Domain]
Revenues
Sales Revenue, Net [Member]
Customer [Axis]
Customer [Axis]
Customer [Domain]
Customer [Domain]
Marathon Petroleum Corporation
Marathon Petroleum Corporation [Member]
Represents the information pertaining to Marathon Petroleum Corporation and its subsidiaries.
ExxonMobil Corporation
Exxon Mobil Corporation [Member]
Represents information pertaining to Exxon Mobil Corporation and its subsidiaries.
Phillips 66
Phillips66 Company [Member]
Represents the information pertaining to Phillips 66 Company and its subsidiaries.
Concentration Risk Type [Axis]
Concentration Risk Type [Axis]
Concentration Risk Type [Domain]
Concentration Risk Type [Domain]
Customer Concentration Risk
Customer Concentration Risk [Member]
Major Customers and Concentration of Credit Risk
Concentration Risk [Line Items]
Major customer percentage of total revenue
Concentration Risk, Percentage
Related Party Transaction [Axis]
Related Party Transaction [Axis]
Related Party Transaction [Domain]
Related Party Transaction [Domain]
Omnibus Agreement
Omnibus Agreement [Member]
An agreement entered into, in connection with the Simplification Transactions, by and among Plains All American Pipeline, L.P., PAA GP Holdings LLC, Plains GP Holdings, L.P., Plains All American GP LLC, Plains AAP, L.P. and PAA GP LLC that provides for the following: (i) that Plains All American Pipeline, L.P. will pay all direct or indirect expenses of PAA GP Holdings LLC , Plains GP Holdings, L.P., Plains All American GP LLC, Plains AAP, L.P. and PAA GP LLC, (ii) the ability of Plains GP Holdings, L.P. to issue additional Class A shares and use the net proceeds therefrom to purchase a like number of Class A units from Plains AAP, L.P, and the corresponding ability of Plains AAP, L.P. to use the net proceeds therefrom to purchase a like number of common units from Plains All American Pipeline, L.P. and (iii) the ability of Plains GP Holdngs, L.P. to lend proceeds of any future indebtedness incurred by it to Plains AAP, L.P., and Plains AAP, L.P.’s corresponding ability to lend such proceeds to Plains All American Pipeline, L.P., in each case on substantially the same terms as incurred by Plains GP Holdings, L.P.
Related Party [Axis]
Related Party [Axis]
Related Party [Domain]
Related Party [Domain]
AAP
Plains Aap L P [Member]
Represents information pertaining to Plains, AAP L.P (AAP).
Common Units
Common Units [Member]
Common units representing limited partner interests in the entity.
Sale of Stock [Axis]
Sale of Stock [Axis]
Sale of Stock [Domain]
Sale of Stock [Domain]
Continuous and Underwritten Offerings
Continuous And Underwritten Offerings [Member]
Sales of common units under equity distribution agreements related to continuous offering programs and through underwritten public offerings.
Continuous Offering Program
Continuous Offering Program [Member]
Represents the continuous equity offering program of the entity under which common units are sold through equity distribution agreements, of which there may be one or more in effect during the reporting period.
Underwritten Offering
Underwritten Offering [Member]
Represents information pertaining to an underwritten public offering of common units.
Partner Type [Axis]
Partner Type [Axis]
Partner Type of Partners' Capital Account, Name [Domain]
Partner Type of Partners' Capital Account, Name [Domain]
General Partner
General Partner [Member]
Issuance of units (in units)
Partners' Capital Account, Units, Sale of Units
Issuance of units, net proceeds
Partners' Capital Account, Sale of Units
General partners' proportionate capital contributions
Proceeds from Contributions from Affiliates
Commissions to sales agents
Commission Paid To Sales Agent
Represents the costs incurred for commissions paid to the agent under the equity distribution agreement.
Major Customers and Concentration of Credit Risk
Concentration Risk Disclosure [Text Block]
Schedule of Segment Reporting Information, by Segment [Table]
Schedule of Segment Reporting Information, by Segment [Table]
Consolidation Items [Axis]
Consolidation Items [Axis]
Consolidation Items [Domain]
Consolidation Items [Domain]
Operating Segments
Operating Segments [Member]
Intersegment
Intersegment Eliminations [Member]
Intersegment Adjustment
Eliminations And Reconciling Items [Member]
Adjustment to reconcile revenues from external customers as presented to the Chief Operating Decision Maker to that presented on the statement of operations.
Segments [Axis]
Segments [Axis]
Segments [Domain]
Segments [Domain]
Transportation
Segment Transportation [Member]
The segment of the entity of which operations generally consist of fee-based activities associated with transporting crude oil and natural gas liquids on pipelines, gathering systems, trucks and barges.
Facilities
Segment Facilities [Member]
The segment of the entity of which operations generally consist of fee-based activities associated with providing storage, terminalling and throughput services for crude oil, refined products, natural gas liquids and natural gas, as well as natural gas liquids fractionation and isomerization services and natural gas and condensate processing services.
Supply and Logistics
Segment Supply And Logistics [Member]
The segment of the entity of which operations generally consist of merchant-related activities, including the purchase of crude oil, natural gas liquids and natural gas at various locations and the resale or exchange of such products at various points along the distribution chain, the storage of inventory during contango market or seasonal storage of NGL and the transportation of crude oil and natural gas liquids, using various methods of transportation, from various delivery points, market hub locations or directly to end users.
Operating Segments
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Operating segments number
Number of Operating Segments
Revenues:
Segment Reporting Information, Revenue for Reportable Segment [Abstract]
Segment Reporting, Disclosure of Other Information about Entity's Reportable Segments
Segment Reporting, Disclosure of Other Information about Entity's Reportable Segments [Abstract]
Equity earnings in unconsolidated entities
Income (Loss) from Equity Method Investments
Segment adjusted EBITDA
Segment Adjusted EBITDA
Revenues and equity earnings in unconsolidated entities less (a) purchases and related costs, (b) field operating costs and (c) segment general and administrative expenses, plus the entity’s proportionate share of the depreciation and amortization expense and gains and losses on significant asset sales of unconsolidated entities, and further adjusted for certain selected items including (i) gains or losses on derivative on derivative instruments that are related to underlying activities in another period (or the reversal of such adjustments from a prior period), gains and losses on derivatives that are related to investing activities (such as the purchase of linefill) and inventory valuation adjustments, as applicable, (ii) long-term inventory costing adjustments, (iii) charges for obligations that are expected to be settled with the issuance of equity instruments, (iv) amounts related to deficiencies associated with minimum volume commitments, net of applicable amounts subsequently recognized into revenue and (v) other items that the Chief Operating Decision Maker believes are integral to understand the entity’s core segment operating performance.
Capital expenditures
Capital Expenditures
Capital expenditures made to expand the existing operating and/or earnings capacity of the entity's assets.
Maintenance capital
Maintenance Capital
Capital expenditures for the replacement of partially or fully depreciated assets in order to maintain the operating and/or earnings capacity of the company's existing assets.
Total assets
Assets
Investments in unconsolidated entities
Equity Method Investments
Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities Disclosure [Abstract]
Offsetting Assets, Liabilities [Table]
Offsetting Assets, Liabilities [Table]
Disclosure of information about derivative and financial assets/ (liabilities) that are subject to offsetting, including enforceable master netting arrangements.
Balance Sheet Location [Axis]
Balance Sheet Location [Axis]
Balance Sheet Location [Domain]
Balance Sheet Location [Domain]
Other current assets
Other Current Assets [Member]
Other long-term assets, net
Other Noncurrent Assets [Member]
Other current liabilities
Other Current Liabilities [Member]
Other long-term liabilities and deferred credits
Other Noncurrent Liabilities [Member]
Derivative and financial assets and liabilities subject to offsetting
Offsetting Assets, Liabilities [Line Items]
Netting Adjustment:
Offsetting [Abstract]
Derivative Asset Positions
Offsetting Derivative Assets [Abstract]
Gross Position - Asset
Derivative Asset, Fair Value, Gross Asset
Netting Adjustment
Derivative Asset, Fair Value, Gross Liability
Cash collateral paid
Derivative Liability, Collateral, Right to Reclaim Cash, Offset
Net Position - Asset
Derivative Asset
Derivative Liability Positions
Offsetting Derivative Liabilities [Abstract]
Gross Position - Liability
Derivative Liability, Fair Value, Gross Liability
Netting Adjustment
Derivative Liability, Fair Value, Gross Asset
Net Position - Liability
Derivative Liability
Accounting Policies [Abstract]
Basis of Consolidation and Presentation
Consolidation, Policy [Policy Text Block]
Use of Estimates
Use of Estimates, Policy [Policy Text Block]
Revenue Recognition
Revenue Recognition, Policy [Policy Text Block]
Purchases and Related Costs
Cost of Sales, Policy [Policy Text Block]
Field Operating Costs and General and Administrative Expenses
Field Operating Costs and General and Administrative Expenses [Policy Text Block]
Describes the entity's accounting policies for field operating costs, and general and administrative expenses.
Foreign Currency Transactions/Translation
Foreign Currency Transactions and Translations Policy [Policy Text Block]
Cash and Cash Equivalents
Cash and Cash Equivalents, Policy [Policy Text Block]
Accounts Receivable, Net
Trade and Other Accounts Receivable, Policy [Policy Text Block]
Noncontrolling Interests
Consolidation, Subsidiaries or Other Investments, Consolidated Entities, Policy [Policy Text Block]
Asset Retirement Obligations
Asset Retirement Obligation [Policy Text Block]
Fair Value Measurements
Fair Value Measurement, Policy [Policy Text Block]
Recent Accounting Pronouncements
New Accounting Pronouncements, Policy [Policy Text Block]
Net Income Per Common Unit
Earnings Per Share, Policy [Policy Text Block]
Inventory, Linefill and Base Gas and Long-term Inventory
Inventory, Policy [Policy Text Block]
Property and Equipment
Property, Plant and Equipment, Policy [Policy Text Block]
Impairment of Long-Lived Assets
Impairment or Disposal of Long-Lived Assets, Policy [Policy Text Block]
Goodwill
Goodwill and Intangible Assets, Goodwill, Policy [Policy Text Block]
Investments in Unconsolidated Entities
Equity Method Investments [Policy Text Block]
Intangible Assets
Intangible Assets, Finite-Lived, Policy [Policy Text Block]
Debt
Debt, Policy [Policy Text Block]
Income Allocation
Partnership Income Allocation [Policy Text Block]
Disclosure of accounting policy relating to the allocation of net income to each type or class of partner.
Derivatives
Derivatives, Policy [Policy Text Block]
Derivative Hedge Accounting Documentation
Derivatives, Methods of Accounting, Hedge Documentation [Policy Text Block]
Derivative Hedge Effectiveness Determination
Derivatives, Methods of Accounting, Hedge Effectiveness [Policy Text Block]
Derivatives That Qualify for Hedge Accounting
Derivatives, Methods of Accounting, Hedging Derivatives [Policy Text Block]
Derivatives That Do Not Qualify for Hedge Accounting
Derivatives, Methods of Accounting, Derivatives Not Designated or Qualifying as Hedges [Policy Text Block]
Cash Settlements Associated with Derivative Activities
Derivatives, Hedge Discontinuances, Termination of Hedging Instrument or Hedged Item [Policy Text Block]
Offsetting Derivative Assets and Liabilities
Derivatives, Offsetting Fair Value Amounts, Policy [Policy Text Block]
Fair Value Hierarchy Transfer
Fair Value Transfer, Policy [Policy Text Block]
Income Taxes
Income Tax, Policy [Policy Text Block]
Concentration of Credit Risk
Concentration Risk, Credit Risk, Policy [Policy Text Block]
Reimbursement of Expenses of Our General Partner and its Affiliates
General Partner Expense [Policy Text Block]
Disclosure of accounting policy for direct and indirect costs incurred on behalf of the reporting company by its general partner.
Loss Contingencies
Commitments and Contingencies, Policy [Policy Text Block]
Environmental Matters
Environmental Costs, Policy [Policy Text Block]
Operating Segments
Segment Reporting, Policy [Policy Text Block]
Derivatives and Risk Management Activities
Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities Disclosure [Text Block]
Partners' Capital and Distributions
Partners' Capital Notes Disclosure [Text Block]
Segment financial data
Schedule of Segment Reporting Information, by Segment [Table Text Block]
Reconciliation of segment profit to net income attributable to PAA
Reconciliation of Operating Profit (Loss) from Segments to Consolidated [Table Text Block]
Revenues attributable to geographic areas
Revenue from External Customers by Geographic Areas [Table Text Block]
Long-lived assets attributable to geographic areas
Long-lived Assets by Geographic Areas [Table Text Block]
Statement of Financial Position [Abstract]
Statement [Table]
Statement [Table]
Series B Preferred Units
Series B Preferred Units [Member]
Series B preferred units representing perpetual limited partner interests in the entity that rank pari passu with Series A preferred units and are not redeemable at the opiton of the holders under any circumstances.
Statement [Line Items]
Statement [Line Items]
Units outstanding (in units)
Limited Partners' Capital Account, Units Outstanding
Goodwill and Intangible Assets Disclosure [Abstract]
Schedule of Goodwill [Table]
Schedule of Goodwill [Table]
Goodwill
Goodwill [Line Items]
Changes in goodwill
Goodwill [Roll Forward]
Balance at beginning of period
Goodwill
Acquisitions
Goodwill, Acquired During Period
Foreign currency translation adjustments
Goodwill, Foreign Currency Translation Gain (Loss)
Dispositions and reclassifications to assets held for sale
Goodwill, Written off Related to Sale of Business Unit
Balance at end of period
Operating Segments
Segment Reporting Disclosure [Text Block]
Income Tax Disclosure [Abstract]
Income Tax Examination [Table]
Income Tax Examination [Table]
Income Tax Examination [Line Items]
Income Tax Examination [Line Items]
Partnership earnings not subject to current Canadian tax
Income Not Subject to Foreign Tax
The earnings of the entity which are not subject to foreign enacted tax laws.
Partnership earnings subject to current Canadian tax
Income Subject to Foreign Tax
The earnings of the entity which are subject to foreign enacted tax laws.
Canadian federal and provincial corporate tax rate
Foreign Tax Rate
This element represents the rate at which the foreign income of an entity is charged to tax as per the enacted tax laws.
Income tax at statutory rate
Foreign Income Tax Expense (Benefit) at Foreign Statutory Rate
The amount of foreign income tax expense or benefit for the period computed by applying the foreign statutory tax rates to foreign pretax income from continuing operations.
Canadian withholding tax
Expense for Withholding Taxes
This element represents the amount of expense during the current period for withholding taxes.
Canadian permanent differences and rate changes
Foreign Period Tax on Permanent Book Versus Tax Differences and Rate Changes
The permanent book versus tax differences in the current foreign income tax expense (benefit) and change in tax rate.
State income tax
Current State and Local Tax Expense (Benefit)
Total income tax expense
Income Tax Expense (Benefit)
Deferred tax assets:
Components of Deferred Tax Assets [Abstract]
Derivative instruments
Deferred Tax Assets, Derivative Instruments
Book accruals in excess of current tax deductions
Deferred Tax Assets, Tax Deferred Expense, Reserves and Accruals
Net operating losses
Deferred Tax Assets, Operating Loss Carryforwards
Total deferred tax assets
Deferred Tax Assets, Net of Valuation Allowance
Deferred tax liabilities:
Components of Deferred Tax Liabilities [Abstract]
Property and equipment in excess of tax values
Deferred Tax Liabilities, Property, Plant and Equipment
Other
Deferred Tax Liabilities, Other
Total deferred tax liabilities
Deferred Tax Liabilities, Gross
Net deferred tax liabilities
Deferred Tax Liabilities, Net
Net deferred tax assets
Deferred Income Tax Assets, Net
Net deferred tax liabilities
Deferred Income Tax Liabilities, Net
Activity for preferred and common units
Schedule of Stockholders Equity [Table Text Block]
Issuance of common units
Net Proceeds From Sale Of Units [Table Text Block]
Tabular disclosure of net proceeds from units sold during the period.
Schedule of distributions paid
Distributions Made to Limited Partner, by Distribution [Table Text Block]
Property, Plant and Equipment [Abstract]
Components of property and equipment, net
Property, Plant and Equipment [Table Text Block]
Debt Disclosure [Abstract]
Schedule of Long-term Debt Instruments [Table]
Schedule of Long-term Debt Instruments [Table]
Long-term Debt, Type [Axis]
Long-term Debt, Type [Axis]
Long-term Debt, Type [Domain]
Long-term Debt, Type [Domain]
Senior notes
Senior Notes [Member]
Commercial Paper
Commercial Paper [Member]
Other
Other Long Term Debt [Member]
Other types of long-term debt not specifically identified.
Debt Instrument [Axis]
Debt Instrument [Axis]
Debt Instrument, Name [Domain]
Debt Instrument, Name [Domain]
Senior secured hedged inventory facility
Senior Secured Hedged Inventory Facility [Member]
Represents activity related to Senior secured hedged inventory credit facility.
6.13% senior notes due January 2017
Senior Notes Due In January2017 At6.13 Percent [Member]
Represents the 6.13 percent senior notes, which are due in January 2017.
6.50% senior notes due May 2018
Senior Notes Due In May2018 At6.50 Percent [Member]
Represents the 6.50 percent senior notes, which are due in May 2018.
8.75% senior notes due May 2019
Senior Notes Due In May2019 At8.75 Percent [Member]
Represents the 8.75 percent senior notes, which are due in May 2019.
2.60% senior notes due December 2019
Senior Notes Due In December2019 At2.60 Percent [Member]
Represents the 2.60 percent senior notes, which are due in December 2019.
5.75% senior notes due January 2020
Senior Notes Due In January2020 At5.75 Percent [Member]
Represents the 5.75 percent senior notes, which are due in January 2020.
5.00% senior notes due February 2021
Senior Notes Due In February2021 At5.00 Percent [Member]
Represents the 5.00 percent senior notes, which are due in February 2021.
3.65% senior notes due June 2022
Senior Notes Due In June2022 At3.65 Percent [Member]
Represents the 3.65 percent senior notes, which are due in June 2022.
2.85% senior notes due January 2023
Senior Notes Due In January2023 At2.85 Percent [Member]
Represents 2.85 percent senior notes, which are due in January 2023.
3.85% senior notes due October 2023
Senior Notes Due In October2023 At3.85 Percent [Member]
Represents the 3.85 percent senior notes, which are due October 2023.
3.60% senior notes due November 2024
Senior Notes Due In November2024 At3.60 Percent [Member]
Represents the 3.60 percent senior notes, which are due in November 2024.
4.65% senior notes due October 2025
Senior Notes Due In October2025 At4.65 Percent [Member]
Represents the 4.65 percent senior notes, which are due in October 2025.
4.50% senior notes due December 2026
Senior Notes Due in December 2026 At 4.50 Percent [Member]
Senior Notes Due in December 2026 At 4.50 Percent [Member]
6.70% senior notes due May 2036
Senior Notes Due In May2036 At6.70 Percent [Member]
Represents the 6.70 percent senior notes, which are due in May 2036.
6.65% senior notes due January 2037
Senior Notes Due In January2037 At6.65 Percent [Member]
Represents the 6.65 percent senior notes, which are due in January 2037.
5.15% senior notes due June 2042
Senior Notes Due In June2042 At5.15 Percent [Member]
Represents the 5.15 percent senior notes, which are due in June 2042.
4.30% senior notes due January 2043
Senior Notes Due In January2043 At4.30 Percent [Member]
Represents the 4.30 percent senior notes, which are due in January 2043.
4.70% senior notes due June 2044
Senior Notes Due In June2044 At4.70 Percent [Member]
Represents the 4.70 percent senior notes, which are due in June 2044.
4.90% senior notes due February 2045
Senior Notes Due In February2045 At4.90 Percent [Member]
Represents the 4.90 percent senior notes, which are due in February 2045.
Transaction Type [Axis]
Transaction Type [Axis]
Transaction [Domain]
Transaction [Domain]
Exchange Traded
Exchange Traded [Member]
Fair Value, Hierarchy [Axis]
Fair Value, Hierarchy [Axis]
Fair Value Hierarchy [Domain]
Fair Value Hierarchy [Domain]
Level 2
Fair Value, Inputs, Level 2 [Member]
Short-term Debt, Type [Axis]
Short-term Debt, Type [Axis]
Short-term Debt, Type [Domain]
Short-term Debt, Type [Domain]
Line of Credit
Line of Credit [Member]
Senior notes
Other
Other Debt [Member]
Other types of debt not specifically identified.
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
SHORT-TERM DEBT
Short-term Debt [Abstract]
Short-term notes and borrowings
Short-term Debt
Senior notes, current portion
Senior Notes, Current
Short-term debt
Debt, Current
Weighted average interest rate, short-term (as a percent)
Short-term Debt, Weighted Average Interest Rate, at Point in Time
LONG-TERM DEBT
Long-term Debt, Unclassified [Abstract]
Long-term debt, before deducting unamortized discounts and debt issuance costs
Long-term Debt, Gross
Unamortized discounts and debt issuance costs
Debt Instrument, Unamortized Discount (Premium) and Debt Issuance Costs, Net
Senior notes, net of unamortized discounts and debt issuance costs
Senior Notes, Noncurrent
Noncurrent portion of other long-term debt
Other Long-term Debt, Noncurrent
Total long-term debt
Long-term Debt and Capital Lease Obligations
Total debt
Debt and Capital Lease Obligations
Debt instrument, interest rate (as a percent)
Debt Instrument, Interest Rate, Stated Percentage
Debt instrument face value
Debt Instrument, Face Amount
Debt instrument fair value
Debt Instrument, Fair Value Disclosure
Property and Equipment
Property, Plant and Equipment Disclosure [Text Block]
Equity Method Investments and Joint Ventures [Abstract]
Investments in Unconsolidated Entities
Equity Method Investments and Joint Ventures Disclosure [Text Block]
Disclosure of Compensation Related Costs, Share-based Payments [Abstract]
Schedule of Share-based Compensation Arrangements by Share-based Payment Award [Table]
Schedule of Share-based Compensation Arrangements by Share-based Payment Award [Table]
Plan Name [Axis]
Plan Name [Axis]
Plan Name [Domain]
Plan Name [Domain]
LTIP
Plains All American Long Term Incentive Plans [Member]
Represents the information pertaining to Plains All American long-term incentive plans.
Plains All American 2013 Long-Term Incentive Plan
Plains All American2013 Long Term Incentive Plan [Member]
Represents information related to the Plains All American 2013 Long-Term Incentive Plan.
Plains All American PNG Successor Long-Term Incentive Plan
Plains All American P N G Successor Long Term Incentive Plan [Member]
Represents information related to the Plains All American PNG Successor Long-Term Incentive Plan.
Plains All American GP LLC 2006 Long-Term Incentive Tracking Unit Plan
Plains All American G P L L C Long Term Incentive Tracking Unit Plan [Member]
Represents information related to the long-term incentive tracking unit plan adopted by Plains All American GP LLC in 2006 for non-officer employees.
Equity-Indexed Compensation Plans
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Authorized grants (in units)
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Number of Shares Authorized
Units outstanding (in units)
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Nonvested, Number
Units outstanding that include DERs (in units)
Share Based Compensation Arrangement by Share Based Payment Award Equity Instruments Other than Options Including Distribution Equivalent Rights Outstanding
This element represents the portion of outstanding units, which include distribution equivalent rights that entitles the grantee to a cash payment equal to the cash distribution paid on an outstanding common unit.
Business Combinations [Abstract]
Schedule of Business Acquisitions, by Acquisition [Table]
Schedule of Business Acquisitions, by Acquisition [Table]
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets by Major Class [Axis]
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets by Major Class [Axis]
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Major Class Name [Domain]
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Major Class Name [Domain]
Acreage Dedication Contracts
Acreage Dedication Contracts [Member]
Acreage Dedication Contracts [Member]
Investment, Name [Axis]
Investment, Name [Axis]
Investment, Name [Domain]
Investment, Name [Domain]
Advantage Joint Venture
Advantage Joint Venture [Member]
Advantage Joint Venture [Member]
Frontier Aspen, LLC
Frontier Aspen, LLC [Member]
Frontier Aspen, LLC [Member]
Business Acquisition [Axis]
Business Acquisition [Axis]
Business Acquisition, Acquiree [Domain]
Business Acquisition, Acquiree [Domain]
Alpha Holding Company, LLC
Alpha Holding Company, LLC [Member]
Alpha Holding Company, LLC [Member]
Propane Marine Terminal
Propane Marine Terminal [Member]
Propane Marine Terminal [Member]
Individually immaterial business acquisitions
Series of Individually Immaterial Business Acquisitions [Member]
Integrated System Of NGL Assets
Integrated System Of NGL Assets [Member]
Acquisition of an integrated system of NGL assets in Western Canada.
Business Acquisition [Line Items]
Business Acquisition [Line Items]
Cash consideration
Payments to Acquire Businesses and Interest in Affiliates
Length of gathering and transmission lines (in miles)
Business Combination, Property And Plant Acquired, Length Of Gathering And Transmission Lines
Business Combination, Property And Plant Acquired, Length Of Gathering And Transmission Lines
Number of market interconnects
Business Combination, Property And Plant Acquired, Number Of Market Interconnects
Business Combination, Property And Plant Acquired, Number Of Market Interconnects
Additional volume enhancements to gathering system (bbls per day)
Business Combination, Property And Plant Acquired, Volume Per Duration Of Additional Enhancements
Business Combination, Property And Plant Acquired, Volume Per Duration Of Additional Enhancements
Area of acreage dedication (gross acres)
Business Combination, Property And Plant Acquired, Area Of Oil And Gas Contract
Business Combination, Property And Plant Acquired, Area Of Oil And Gas Contract
Number of acreage dedication contracts acquired
Business Combination, Number of Finite Lived Assets Acquired
Business Combination, Number of Finite Lived Assets Acquired
Weighted-average useful life
Acquired Finite-lived Intangible Assets, Weighted Average Useful Life
Amortization expense for finite-lived intangible assets
Amortization of Intangible Assets
Acquisition-related expenses
Business Combination, Acquisition Related Costs
Ownership interest
Equity Method Investment, Ownership Percentage
Number of acquisitions completed
Number of Businesses Acquired
Interest acquired
Equity Method Investment, Ownership Percentage Acquired
The percentage of ownership of common stock or equity participation in the investee accounted for under the equity method of accounting that was acquired during the period.
Goodwill recognized
Document and Entity Information
Entity Registrant Name
Entity Registrant Name
Entity Central Index Key
Entity Central Index Key
Document Type
Document Type
Document Period End Date
Document Period End Date
Amendment Flag
Amendment Flag
Current Fiscal Year End Date
Current Fiscal Year End Date
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 Filer Category
Entity Filer Category
Entity Public Float
Entity Public Float
Entity Common Stock Outstanding (shares)
Entity Common Stock, Shares Outstanding
Document Fiscal Year Focus
Document Fiscal Year Focus
Document Fiscal Period Focus
Document Fiscal Period Focus
Net income allocation
Partnership Agreement, Net Income Allocation Percent
Partnership Agreement, Net Income Allocation Percent
Other Assets [Abstract]
Other Long-Term Assets, Net
Other Assets, Noncurrent [Abstract]
Intangible assets
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Gross
Other
Other Assets, Miscellaneous, Noncurrent
Other long-term assets, gross
Other Assets, Noncurrent, Gross
Gross amount, as of the balance sheet date, of noncurrent assets not separately disclosed in the balance sheet. Noncurrent assets are expected to be realized or consumed after one year (or the normal operating cycle, if longer).
Accumulated amortization
Accumulated Amortization of Other Assets, Noncurrent
Carrying amount of accumulated amortization of noncurrent assets not separately disclosed in the balance sheet.
Other long-term assets, net
Other Assets, Noncurrent
Summary of Significant Accounting Policies
Significant Accounting Policies [Text Block]
Commitments and Contingencies Disclosure [Abstract]
Schedule of future non-cancelable commitments
Contractual Obligation, Fiscal Year Maturity Schedule [Table Text Block]
ASSETS
Assets [Abstract]
CURRENT ASSETS
Assets, Current [Abstract]
Cash and cash equivalents
Cash and Cash Equivalents, at Carrying Value
Trade accounts receivable and other receivables, net
Receivables, Net, Current
Inventory
Inventory, Net
Other current assets
Other Assets, Current
Total current assets
Assets, Current
PROPERTY AND EQUIPMENT
Property, Plant and Equipment, Gross
Accumulated depreciation
Accumulated Depreciation, Depletion and Amortization, Property, Plant, and Equipment
Property and equipment, net
Property, Plant and Equipment, Net
OTHER ASSETS
Goodwill
Investments in unconsolidated entities
Linefill and base gas
Linefill and Base Gas
Crude oil and NGL linefill in pipelines, tanks and caverns as well as base gas in natural gas storage facilities that are owned by the entity. Linefill and base gas are intended for long-term use.
Long-term inventory
Inventory, Noncurrent
Other long-term assets, net
Total assets
LIABILITIES AND PARTNERS’ CAPITAL
Liabilities and Equity [Abstract]
CURRENT LIABILITIES
Liabilities, Current [Abstract]
Accounts payable and accrued liabilities
Accounts Payable and Accrued Liabilities, Current
Short-term debt
Other current liabilities
Other Liabilities, Current
Total current liabilities
Liabilities, Current
LONG-TERM LIABILITIES
Liabilities, Noncurrent [Abstract]
Other long-term debt
Other long-term liabilities and deferred credits
Liabilities, Other than Long-term Debt, Noncurrent
Total long-term liabilities
Liabilities, Noncurrent
COMMITMENTS AND CONTINGENCIES (NOTE 17)
Commitments and Contingencies
PARTNERS’ CAPITAL
Partners' Capital, Including Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest [Abstract]
Unitholders
Limited Partners' Capital Account
Total partners’ capital excluding noncontrolling interests
Partners' Capital
Noncontrolling interests
Partners' Capital Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest
Total partners’ capital
Partners' Capital, Including Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest
Total liabilities and partners’ capital
Liabilities and Equity
Other Consolidated Equity-Indexed Compensation Plan Information
Other Consolidated Equity Compensation Information [Abstract]
Other Consolidated Equity Compensation Information [Abstract]
Equity-indexed compensation expense
Allocated Share-based Compensation Expense
LTIP unit-settled vestings
Share Based Compensation Arrangement By Share Based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other Than Options, Vested In Period, Total Settlement Fair Value
Share Based Compensation Arrangement By Share Based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other Than Options, Vested In Period, Total Settlement Fair Value
LTIP cash-settled vestings
Share Based Compensation Arrangement By Share Based Payment Award, Vested In Period, Cash Settled
Share Based Compensation Arrangement By Share Based Payment Award, Vested In Period, Cash Settled
Equity-Indexed Compensation Plan Fair Value Amortization
Equity Based Compensation, Fair Value, Future Amortization [Abstract]
2018
Equity Based Compensation, Fair Value, Future Amortization Expense, Year One
The amount of amortization expense expected to be recognized during the twelve-month period following the balance sheet date for the amortization of the unrecognized expense based on fair value of outstanding awards related to equity compensation plans.
2019
Equity Based Compensation, Fair Value, Future Amortization Expense, Year Two
The amount of amortization expense expected to be recognized during the second twelve-month period following the balance sheet date for the amortization of the unrecognized expense based on fair value of outstanding awards related to equity compensation plans.
2020
Equity Based Compensation, Fair Value, Future Amortization Expense Year Three
The amount of amortization expense expected to be recognized during the third twelve-month period following the balance sheet date for the amortization of the unrecognized expense based on fair value of outstanding awards related to equity compensation plans.
2021
Equity Based Compensation, Fair Value, Future Amortization Expense, Year Four
The amount of amortization expense expected to be recognized during the fourth twelve-month period following the balance sheet date for the amortization of the unrecognized expense based on fair value of outstanding awards related to equity compensation plans.
2022
Equity Based Compensation, Fair Value, Future Amortization Expense, Year Five
The amount of amortization expense expected to be recognized during the fifth twelve-month period following the balance sheet date for the amortization of the unrecognized expense based on fair value of outstanding awards related to equity compensation plans.
Total
Employee Service Share-based Compensation, Nonvested Awards, Compensation Cost Not yet Recognized
Schedule of debt
Schedule of Debt [Table Text Block]
Issuances of senior unsecured notes
Schedule of Long-term Debt Instruments [Table Text Block]
Aggregate maturities of long-term debt
Schedule of Maturities of Long-term Debt [Table Text Block]
Schedule of Accounts, Notes, Loans and Financing Receivable [Table]
Schedule of Accounts, Notes, Loans and Financing Receivable [Table]
Range [Axis]
Range [Axis]
Range [Domain]
Range [Domain]
Maximum
Maximum [Member]
Minimum
Minimum [Member]
Accounts, Notes, Loans and Financing Receivable [Line Items]
Accounts, Notes, Loans and Financing Receivable [Line Items]
Foreign Currency Transactions
Foreign Currency Transaction [Abstract]
Gain (loss) on revaluation of foreign currency transactions and monetary assets and liabilities
Foreign Currency Transaction Gain (Loss), before Tax
Cash and Cash Equivalents
Cash and Cash Equivalents, at Carrying Value [Abstract]
Outstanding checks included in accounts payable that were reclassified from cash and cash equivalents
Liabilities for Outstanding Checks
Liability as of the balance sheet date of outstanding checks that were reclassified from cash and cash equivalents to accounts payable and accrued liabilities.
Accounts Receivable
Receivables, Net, Current [Abstract]
NYMEX WTI oil price (in dollars per bbl)
Volume Price, Price Per Volume
Volume Price, Price Per Volume
Advance cash payments received from third parties to mitigate credit risk
Customer Advances, Current
Standby letters of credit
Standby Letters of Credit Received
Represents a guarantee of payment issued by a financial institution that is used to support obligations due from third parties, a portion of which applies to future business.
Substantially all trade accounts receivable, net, maximum age of balances past their scheduled invoice date
Trade Accounts Receivable Net Disclosure of Maximum Age of Balances Past Scheduled Invoice Date
The maximum number of days past their scheduled invoice date for substantially all of the trade accounts receivable.
Allowance for doubtful accounts receivable
Allowance for Doubtful Accounts Receivable, Current
Asset Retirement Obligations
Asset Retirement Obligation [Abstract]
Fair value of asset retirement obligations
Asset Retirement Obligation
Investments in and summarized financial information for entities accounted for under the equity method of accounting
Equity Method Investments [Table Text Block]
Quarterly Financial Information Disclosure [Abstract]
Quarterly financial data (unaudited)
Quarterly Financial Information [Table Text Block]
Organization, Consolidation and Presentation of Financial Statements [Abstract]
Organization Consolidation and Presentation of Financial Statements [Table]
Organization Consolidation and Presentation of Financial Statements [Table]
Schedule detailing information related to organization, basis of accounting, or basis of presentation, used to prepare the financial reports of the entity.
AAP senior secured credit agreement
AAP Senior Secured Credit Agreement [Member]
AAP Senior Secured Credit Agreement [Member]
Simplification Transactions
Simplification Transactions [Member]
The Simplification Transactions entered into by the entities which closed on November 15, 2016.
Counterparty Name [Axis]
Counterparty Name [Axis]
Counterparty Name [Domain]
Counterparty Name [Domain]
Legal Entity [Axis]
Legal Entity [Axis]
Entity [Domain]
Entity [Domain]
PAGP
Plains G P Holdings L P [Member]
Represents information pertaining to Plains GP Holdings, L.P. ("PAGP"), which owns a limited partner interest in Plains AAP, L.P.
PAA GP
Paa G P L L C [Member]
Represents the information pertaining to PAA GP LLC. ("PAA GP"), of which AAP is the sole member.
Organization and basis of presentation
Organization and Basis of Presentation [Line Items]
Line items represent financial concepts included in a table. These concepts are used to disclose reportable information associated with domain members defined in one or many axes to the table.
Limited partner interest (units)
Limited Liability Company (LLC) or Limited Partnership (LP), Members or Limited Partners, Ownership Interest, Units
Limited Liability Company (LLC) or Limited Partnership (LP), Members or Limited Partners, Ownership Interest, Units
Limited partner interest
Limited Liability Company or Limited Partnership, Members or Limited Partners, Ownership Interest
Economic ownership interest converted into non-economic interest
Limited Liability Company (LLC) or Limited Partnership (LP), Managing Member or General Partner, Economic Ownership Interest Converted Into Non-economic Interest
Percentage of economic interest held by the managing member or general partner of the limited liability company (LLC) or limited partnership (LP), converted into a non-economic interest.
Units agreed to be issued in connection with the Simplification Transactions
Limited Partner Capital Account Units Agreed To Be Issued
Limited Partner Capital Account Units Agreed To Be Issued
Units to be issued in the future (in units)
Limited Partners Capital Account, Units Issuable
Limited Partners Capital Account, Units Issuable
Debt assumed
Debt Assumed
Debt Assumed
Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) [Table]
Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) [Table]
Hedging Designation [Axis]
Hedging Designation [Axis]
Hedging Designation [Domain]
Hedging Designation [Domain]
Derivatives in Hedging Relationships
Designated as Hedging Instrument [Member]
Derivatives Not Designated as a Hedge
Not Designated as Hedging Instrument [Member]
Derivative Instrument [Axis]
Derivative Instrument [Axis]
Derivative Contract [Domain]
Derivative Contract [Domain]
Commodity Derivatives
Commodity Contract [Member]
Interest Rate Derivatives
Interest Rate Contract [Member]
Foreign Currency Derivatives
Foreign Exchange Contract [Member]
Preferred Distribution Rate Reset Option
Embedded Derivative Financial Instruments [Member]
Income Statement Location [Axis]
Income Statement Location [Axis]
Income Statement Location [Domain]
Income Statement Location [Domain]
Supply and Logistics segment revenues
Sales And Related Revenues [Member]
Revenue from the sale of crude oil, NGL and natural gas during the period.
Transportation segment revenues
Pipeline Tariff Activities Trucking And Related Revenues [Member]
Revenue from the transportation of crude oil and NGL on pipelines, gathering systems, trucks and barges during the period.
Field operating costs
Field Operating Costs [Member]
Costs related to site and field operations during the period.
Depreciation and amortization
Depreciation And Amortization [Member]
Primary financial statement caption encompassing depreciation and amortization.
Interest expense, net
Interest Expense [Member]
Other income/(expense), net
Other Nonoperating Income (Expense) [Member]
Impact of derivative activities recognized in earnings
Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) [Line Items]
Total gain (loss) on derivatives recognized in net income
Derivative, Gain (Loss) on Derivative, Net
Loss recognized due to anticipated hedged transactions being probable of not occurring
Gain (Loss) on Discontinuation of Cash Flow Hedge Due to Forecasted Transaction Probable of Not Occurring, Net
Loss on ineffective portion of cash flow hedges
Loss on Cash Flow Hedge Ineffectiveness
Commitments and Contingencies
Commitments and Contingencies Disclosure [Text Block]
SLC Pipeline LLC
S L C Pipeline L L C [Member]
This element represents the information pertaining to SLC Pipeline LLC.
Noncontrolling interests in subsidiaries
Noncontrolling Interest, Ownership Percentage by Noncontrolling Owners
Ownership percentage sold
Equity Method Investment, Ownership Percentage Sold
Equity Method Investment, Ownership Percentage Sold
Other Long-Term Assets, Net
Other Assets Disclosure [Text Block]
Plains All American Pipeline L P [Member]
Plains All American Pipeline L P [Member]
Represents the information pertaining to Plains All American Pipeline, L.P. ("PAA").
Distribution Type [Axis]
Distribution Type [Axis]
Distribution Type [Domain]
Distribution Type [Domain]
Cash Distribution
Cash Distribution [Member]
Unit Distribution
Unit Distribution [Member]
Partner Capital Components [Axis]
Partner Capital Components [Axis]
Partner Capital Components [Domain]
Partner Capital Components [Domain]
Partners’ Capital Excluding Noncontrolling Interests
Parent [Member]
Subsequent Event Type [Axis]
Subsequent Event Type [Axis]
Subsequent Event Type [Domain]
Subsequent Event Type [Domain]
Subsequent Event
Subsequent Event [Member]
Dividends [Axis]
Dividends [Axis]
Dividends [Domain]
Dividends [Domain]
Fourth quarter distribution
Fourth Quarter Distribution [Member]
The distribution associated with earnings for the fourth quarter of the current fiscal year which are paid in the first quarter of the following fiscal year.
Percentage of available cash distributed
Percentage Distribution of Available Cash
This element represents the percentage of cash distributed out of available cash.
Number of days after end of quarter within which distributions must be paid to unitholders
Number of Days Required for Distribution to Unitholders after End of Quarter
The number of days after the end of the relevant quarter within which distributions of available cash must be paid to unitholders.
General partner ownership interest
Limited Liability Company (LLC) or Limited Partnership (LP), Managing Member or General Partner, Ownership Interest
Units issued in connection with the Simplification Transactions
Limited Partners' Capital Account, Units Issued
Distribution per common unit declared (in dollars per unit)
Distribution Made to Limited Partner, Distributions Declared, Per Unit
Cash distributions paid
Partners' Capital Account, Distributions
Distributions paid to unitholders
Limited Partners' Capital Account, Distribution Amount
Unit distributions (in units)
Distribution Made to Limited Partner, Unit Distribution
Dividends paid (in dollars per unit)
Preferred Stock, Dividends, Per Share, Cash Paid
Preferred unit dividends
Dividends, Preferred Stock
Distributions payable
Dividends Payable
Schedule of Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Table]
Schedule of Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Table]
Customer contracts and relationships
Customer Relationships [Member]
Property tax abatement
Property Tax Abatement [Member]
Intangible asset representing the value of the entity's property tax abatement.
Other agreements
Other Intangible Assets [Member]
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]
Estimated Useful Lives
Finite-Lived Intangible Asset, Useful Life
Cost
Accumulated Amortization
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Accumulated Amortization
Net
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Net
Estimated amortization expense related to finite-lived intangible assets for the next five years
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Net, Amortization Expense, Fiscal Year Maturity [Abstract]
2018
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Amortization Expense, Next Twelve Months
2019
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Amortization Expense, Year Two
2020
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Amortization Expense, Year Three
2021
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Amortization Expense, Year Four
2022
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Amortization Expense, Year Five
Schedule of assets acquired and liabilities assumed
Schedule of Recognized Identified Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed [Table Text Block]
Schedule of amortization expense
Finite-lived Intangible Assets Amortization Expense [Table Text Block]
Earnings Per Share [Abstract]
Computation of basic and diluted net income per common unit
Schedule of Earnings Per Share, Basic and Diluted [Table Text Block]
Inventory, Linefill and Base Gas and Long-term Inventory
Inventory, Current [Table]
Inventory, Current [Table]
Inventory [Axis]
Inventory [Axis]
Inventory [Domain]
Inventory [Domain]
Crude oil
Crude Oil [Member]
NGL
Natural Gas Liquids [Member]
Natural gas
Natural Gas [Member]
Other
Other Inventory [Member]
Category of inventory not separately disclosed.
Inventory
Inventory [Line Items]
Inventory-related disclosures
Inventory Adjustments [Abstract]
Charge related to the write-down of inventory
Inventory Write-down
Inventory by category
Inventory Disclosure [Abstract]
Inventory, Volumes (in barrels or in Mcf)
Inventory, Volumes Current
The volume of current inventory as of the balance sheet date.
Linefill and base gas, Volumes (in barrels or in Mcf)
Inventory, Volumes Linefill and Base Gas
The volume of linefill and base gas inventory as of the balance sheet date.
Long-term inventory, Volumes (in barrels or in Mcf)
Inventory, Volumes, Noncurrent
The volume of noncurrent inventory as of the balance sheet date.
Total
Inventory, Current and Noncurrent
This element represents the aggregate of current and non-current inventory, including linefill and base gas.
Inventory, Price/Unit of measure (in dollars per unit)
Inventory, Weighted Average Price Per Unit, Current
The weighted-average price per unit of current inventory.
Linefill and base gas, Price/Unit of measure (in dollars per unit)
Inventory, Weighted Average Price Per Unit Linefill and Base Gas
The weighted-average price per unit of linefill and base gas inventory.
Long-term inventory, Price/Unit of measure (in dollars per unit)
Inventory, Weighted Average Price Per Unit Noncurrent
The weighted-average price per unit of noncurrent inventory.
Disposal Groups, Including Discontinued Operations [Table]
Disposal Groups, Including Discontinued Operations [Table]
Disposal Group Name [Axis]
Disposal Group Name [Axis]
Disposal Group Name [Domain]
Disposal Group Name [Domain]
Red River Pipeline
Red River Pipeline [Member]
Red River Pipeline [Member]
Disposal Group Classification [Axis]
Disposal Group Classification [Axis]
Disposal Group Classification [Domain]
Disposal Group Classification [Domain]
Disposed of by sale
Disposal Group, Disposed of by Sale, Not Discontinued Operations [Member]
Held for sale
Disposal Group, Held-for-sale, Not Discontinued Operations [Member]
Asset Class [Axis]
Asset Class [Axis]
Asset Class [Domain]
Asset Class [Domain]
Goodwill
Goodwill [Member]
Dispositions
Income Statement, Balance Sheet and Additional Disclosures by Disposal Groups, Including Discontinued Operations [Line Items]
Proceeds from sales of assets
Proceeds from Sale of Productive Assets
Ownership interest disposed of
Disposal Group, Sale of Assets, Ownership Interest Disposed Of
Disposal Group, Sale of Assets, Ownership Interest Disposed Of
Recognized gains/(losses) related to sale of assets, net
Gain (Loss) on Disposition of Assets
Recognized gains related to sale of assets
Gain On Disposition Of Assets
Gross amount of gain on sale or disposal of assets.
Recognized losses related to sale of assets
Loss On Disposition Of Assets
Gross amount of loss on sale or disposal of assets.
Impairment losses
Asset Impairment Charges
Assets classified as held for sale
Disposal Group, Including Discontinued Operation, Assets, Current
Derivative [Table]
Derivative [Table]
Net long position associated with crude oil purchases
Net Long Position On Crude Oil Derivative Contracts [Member]
Represents the derivative instruments utilized to hedge risk associated with crude oil purchases.
Net short time spread position hedging anticipated crude oil lease gathering purchases
Net Short Time Spread Position On Anticipated Crude Oil Lease Gathering Purchase Contracts [Member]
Represents the derivative instruments utilized to hedge anticipated crude oil lease gathering purchases.
Crude oil grade basis position
Crude Oil Grade Basis Position [Member]
Represents the derivative instruments that hedge crude oil purchases based on grade basis differentials.
Net short position related to anticipated net sales of crude oil and NGL inventory
Net Short Position Contracts Related To Anticipated Net Sales Of Inventory [Member]
Represents the derivative instruments in a net short position related to anticipated net sales of crude oil and NGL inventory.
PLA net short position consisting of crude oil futures related to anticipated sales
Pipeline Loss Allowance Net Short Position Consisting of Crude Oil Futures [Member]
Represents the derivative instruments in a net short position consisting of crude oil futures related to pipeline loss allowance.
PLA oil long call option position related to anticipated sales
Pipeline Loss Allowance Crude Oil Long Call Option [Member]
Represents the derivative instruments in a long call option position related to pipeline loss allowance for crude oil.
Long natural gas position for natural gas purchases
Long Position On Natural Gas Contracts [Member]
Represents derivative instruments consisting of long natural gas position related to purchase of natural gas.
Short propane position related to subsequent sale of products
Short Propane Position Contracts Related To Subsequent Sale Of Product [Member]
Represents the derivative instruments in a short position for propane that hedges the subsequent sale of products derived from our natural gas processing and NGL fractionation activities.
Short butane position related to subsequent sale of products
Short Butane Position Contracts Related To Subsequent Sale Of Product [Member]
Represents the derivative instruments in a short position for butane that hedges the subsequent sale of products derived from our natural gas processing and NGL fractionation activities.
Short WTI position related to subsequent sale of products
Short W T I Position Contracts Related To Subsequent Sale Of Product [Member]
Represents the derivative instruments in a short position for WTI that hedges the subsequent sale of products derived from our natural gas processing and NGL fractionation activities.
Long power position for power supply requirements
Long Power Position For Power Supply Requirements Contracts [Member]
Represents the derivative instruments consisting of long power positions which hedge a portion of power supply requirements.
Derivatives and Risk Management Activities
Derivative [Line Items]
Commodity Price Risk Hedging:
Price Risk Derivatives [Abstract]
Derivative position notional amount (in barrels or Mcf)
Derivative, Nonmonetary Notional Amount, Volume
Derivative position notional amount (in megawatt hours)
Derivative, Nonmonetary Notional Amount, Energy Measure
Combined summarized financial information for unconsolidated entities
Equity Method Investment, Financial Statement, Reported Amounts [Abstract]
Current assets
Equity Method Investment, Summarized Financial Information, Current Assets
Noncurrent assets
Equity Method Investment, Summarized Financial Information, Noncurrent Assets
Current liabilities
Equity Method Investment, Summarized Financial Information, Current Liabilities
Noncurrent liabilities
Equity Method Investment, Summarized Financial Information, Noncurrent Liabilities
Revenues
Equity Method Investment, Summarized Financial Information, Revenue
Operating income
Equity Method Investment Summarized Financial Information Operating Income
The amount of operating income reported by an equity method investment of the entity.
Net income
Equity Method Investment, Summarized Financial Information, Net Income (Loss)
Reconciliation of Operating Profit (Loss) from Segments to Consolidated [Table]
Reconciliation of Operating Profit (Loss) from Segments to Consolidated [Table]
Loss Contingency Nature [Axis]
Loss Contingency Nature [Axis]
Loss Contingency, Nature [Domain]
Loss Contingency, Nature [Domain]
Line 901 Incident
Line901 Incident [Member]
Represents information pertaining to the crude oil release from the Las Flores to Gaviota Pipeline in Santa Barbara County, California.
Segment Reporting, Reconciling Item for Operating Profit (Loss) from Segment to Consolidated [Line Items]
Segment Reporting, Reconciling Item for Operating Profit (Loss) from Segment to Consolidated [Line Items]
Adjustments:
Reconciliation of Operating Profit (Loss) from Segments to Consolidated [Abstract]
Depreciation and amortization of unconsolidated entities
Depreciation And Amortization Of Unconsolidated Entities
The reporting entity’s proportionate share of depreciation and amortization expense and gains or losses on significant asset sales of unconsolidated entities.
Gains/(losses) from derivative activities net of inventory valuation adjustments
Gains (Losses) From Derivative Activities, Net of Inventory Valuation Adjustments
Gains (losses) related to derivative instruments for which the underlying transaction does not occur in the current period and on derivatives that are related to investing activities, such as the purchase of linefill. Also includes the impact of corresponding inventory valuation adjustments, as applicable.
Long-term inventory costing adjustments
Long-Term Inventory Costing Adjustments
Includes the impact of changes (resulting from fluctuations in market prices) in the average cost of crude oil and NGL inventory that is comprised of minimum working inventory requirements in third-party assets and other working inventory that is needed for the entity’s commercial operations which is considered necessary to conduct the entity’s operations and which the entity intends to carry for the foreseeable future, as well as writedowns of such inventory that result from price declines.
Deficiencies under minimum volume commitments, net
Deficiencies Under Minimum Volume Commitments, Net
Includes the impact of amounts billed to counterparties for their deficiency obligation, net of applicable amounts subsequently recognized into revenue. Certain agreements require counterparties to deliver, transport or throughput a minimum volume over an agreed upon period. Substantially all of such agreements were entered into with counterparties to economically support the return on the reporting entity's capital expenditure necessary to construct the related asset. Some of these agreements include make-up rights if the minimum volume is not met. A receivable from the counterparty is recorded in the period that services are provided or when the transaction occurs, including amounts for deficiency obligations from counterparties associated with minimum volume commitments. If a counterparty has a make-up right associated with a deficiency, the revenue attributable to the counterparty’s make-up right is deferred and is subsequently recognized at the earlier of when the deficiency volume is delivered or shipped, when the make-up right expires or when it is determined that the counterparty’s ability to utilize the make-up right is remote.
Equity-indexed compensation expense
Equity Indexed Compensation Expense Awards That Will Or May Be Settled In Units
Includes equity-indexed compensation expense associated with awards that will or may be settled in units.
Net gain/(loss) on foreign currency revaluation
Net Gain (Loss) On Foreign Currency Revaluation
Includes gains and losses from the revaluation of foreign currency transactions and
monetary assets and liabilities.
Line 901 incident
Significant Costs Related To Legal And Environmental Remediation Matters
Significant Costs Related To Legal And Environmental Remediation Matters
Significant acquisition-related expenses
Depreciation and amortization
Depreciation, Depletion and Amortization
Interest expense, net
Interest Expense
Other income/(expense), net
Other Nonoperating Income (Expense)
Income tax expense
NET INCOME
Net Income (Loss), Including Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest
Net income attributable to noncontrolling interests
Net Income (Loss) Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest
NET INCOME ATTRIBUTABLE TO PAA
Net Income (Loss) Attributable to Parent
Statement of Comprehensive Income [Abstract]
Net income
Other comprehensive income/(loss)
Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax
Comprehensive income
Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax, Including Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest
Comprehensive income attributable to noncontrolling interests
Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax, Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest
Comprehensive income attributable to PAA
Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax, Attributable to Parent
Schedule of goodwill by segment and changes during the period
Schedule of Goodwill [Table Text Block]
Quarterly Financial Data (Unaudited)
Quarterly Financial Information [Text Block]
Deferred Revenue Arrangement, by Type [Table]
Deferred Revenue Arrangement, by Type [Table]
Type of Arrangement and Non-arrangement Transactions [Axis]
Type of Arrangement and Non-arrangement Transactions [Axis]
Arrangements and Non-arrangement Transactions [Domain]
Arrangements and Non-arrangement Transactions [Domain]
Minimum Volume Commitments
Minimum Volume Commitment Agreements [Member]
Agreements that require counterparties to deliver, transport or throughput a minimum volume over an agreed upon period, some of which include make-up rights.
Minimum Volume Commitments
Deferred Revenue Arrangement [Line Items]
Total counterparty deficiencies
Counterparty Deficiencies
Amount associated with deficiencies by counterparties of their contractual minimum commitments.
Deferred revenue
Deferred Revenue
Deficiencies not yet billed or collected
Counterparty Deficiencies Unbilled And Uncollected
Amount that has yet to be billed or collected as of the balance sheet date associated with deficiencies by counterparties of their contractual minimum commitments.
Total revenues
Gross margin
Gross Margin
Total revenues less purchases and related costs, field operating costs and depreciation and amortization.
Operating income
Operating Income (Loss)
Net income attributable to PAA
Basic net income/(loss) per common unit (in dollars per unit)
Net Income (Loss), Per Outstanding Limited Partnership Unit, Basic, Net of Tax
Diluted net income/(loss) per common unit (in dollars per unit)
Net Income (Loss), Net of Tax, Per Outstanding Limited Partnership Unit, Diluted
Cash distributions per common unit (in dollars per unit)
Distributions Per Limited Partnership Unit Outstanding, Basic
Debt
Debt Disclosure [Text Block]
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax [Abstract]
Derivative Instruments
Accumulated Net Gain (Loss) from Cash Flow Hedges Including Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest [Member]
Translation Adjustments
Accumulated Foreign Currency Adjustment Including Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest [Member]
Other
AOCI, Other, Including Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest [Member]
AOCI, Other, Including Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest [Member]
Total
AOCI Including Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest [Member]
Changes in Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income/(Loss)
AOCI Attributable to Parent, Net of Tax [Roll Forward]
AOCI Attributable to Parent, Net of Tax [Roll Forward]
Beginning balance
Stockholders' Equity, Including Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest
Reclassification adjustments
Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Reclassification Adjustment from AOCI on Derivatives, Net of Tax
Deferred gain/(loss) on cash flow hedges
Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Unrealized Gain (Loss) on Derivatives Arising During Period, Net of Tax
Currency translation adjustments
Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Foreign Currency Transaction and Translation Adjustment, Net of Tax
Other
Other Comprehensive Income, Other, Net of Tax
Total period activity
Ending balance
Current income tax expense:
Current Income Tax Expense (Benefit), Continuing Operations [Abstract]
Canadian federal and provincial income tax
Current Foreign Tax Expense (Benefit)
Total current income tax expense
Current Income Tax Expense (Benefit)
Deferred income tax expense/(benefit):
Deferred Income Tax Expense (Benefit), Continuing Operations [Abstract]
Canadian federal and provincial income tax
Deferred Foreign Income Tax Expense (Benefit)
Total deferred income tax expense/(benefit)
Deferred Income Tax Expense (Benefit)
Equity-Indexed Compensation Plans
Disclosure of Compensation Related Costs, Share-based Payments [Text Block]
Stock Conversion Description [Axis]
Stock Conversion Description [Axis]
Conversion of Stock, Name [Domain]
Conversion of Stock, Name [Domain]
Conversion Of AAP Management Units Into AAP Units
Conversion Of Aap Management Units Into Aap Units [Member]
Right of holders of vested AAP Management Units, which represent a profits interest in AAP, to convert such units into AAP units and a like number of the entity's Class B shares.
AAP Management Units
Equity Based Compensation Plan A A P Management Units [Member]
Represents information pertaining to AAP Management Units, which are equity compensation plan awards for members of senior management.
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Number of Shares Available for Grant
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Number of Shares Available for Grant
Unearned units
Share Based Compensation Arrangement by Share Based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other Than Options, Unearned Units
Share Based Compensation Arrangement by Share Based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other Than Options, Unearned Units
Common units to be issued
Units To Be Issued
The number of common units to be issued for each AAP Management Unit once earned.
Equivalent distribution entitled to be received when earned (as a percent)
Equivalent Distribution Amount
The percentage of the distribution paid by AAP to an AAP unit on a quarterly basis that each AAP Management Unit will be entitled to receive once earned.
Unit conversion ratio
Unit Conversion Ratio
Ratio applied to determine the number of units or shares that would be received by holders choosing to convert or exchange one class of units or shares into another, as specified.
Schedule of inventory, linefill and base gas and long-term inventory
Schedule of Inventory Linefill and Base Gas and Long Term Inventory [Table Text Block]
Tabular disclosure of the carrying amount as of the balance sheet date of inventory, linefill and base gas and long-term inventory. This may include, but is not limited to, the volumes, unit of measure, total value, and price per unit of each of the major classes of inventory.
16 forward starting swaps (30-year)
Sixteen Forward Starting Thirty Year Interest Rate Swaps2.86 Percent [Member]
Sixteen Forward Starting Thirty Year Interest Rate Swaps2.86 Percent [Member]
8 forward starting swaps (30-year)
Eight Forward Starting Thirty Year Interest Rate Swaps2.83 Percent [Member]
Eight forward starting 30-year interest rate swaps to hedge the underlying benchmark interest rate related to anticipated interest payments, with an average fixed rate of 2.83 percent.
Forward exchange contracts that exchange CAD for USD maturing in 2018
Foreign Exchange Forward Contracts That Exchange Canadian Dollars For US Dollars At Average Rate Disclosed Maturing in 2018 [Member]
Foreign Exchange Forward Contracts That Exchange Canadian Dollars For US Dollars At Average Rate Disclosed Maturing in 2018 [Member]
Forward exchange contracts that exchange USD for CAD maturing in 2018
Foreign Exchange Forward Contracts That Exchange U S Dollars For Canadian Dollars At Average Rate Disclosed Maturing In 2018 [Member]
Foreign Exchange Forward Contracts That Exchange U S Dollars For Canadian Dollars At Average Rate Disclosed Maturing In 2018 [Member]
Hedging Relationship [Axis]
Hedging Relationship [Axis]
Hedging Relationship [Domain]
Hedging Relationship [Domain]
Cash Flow Hedging
Cash Flow Hedging [Member]
Currency Exchange Rate Risk Hedging:
Foreign Currency Derivatives [Abstract]
Number of interest rate derivatives
Number of Interest Rate Derivatives Held
Term of derivative contract
Derivative, Term of Contract
Notional amount of derivatives
Derivative, Notional Amount
Average rate locked (percent)
Derivative, Average Fixed Interest Rate
Average exchange rate (cad per usd)
Derivative, Average Forward Exchange Rate
Net derivative liability
Derivative, Fair Value, Net
Gain on embedded derivative
Embedded Derivative, Gain (Loss) on Embedded Derivative, Net
Summary of shares authorized
Disclosure of Share-based Compensation Arrangements by Share-based Payment Award [Table Text Block]
Summary of activity for equity-indexed compensation plans
Schedule of Nonvested Performance-based Units Activity [Table Text Block]
Summary of expense recognized and the value of vested LTIP awards under equity-indexed compensation plans
Schedule of Compensation Cost for Share-based Payment Arrangements, Allocation of Share-based Compensation Costs by Plan [Table Text Block]
Estimated equity-indexed compensation plan fair value amortization
Schedule of Share Based Compensation Arrangement by Share Based Payment Award, Fair Value Amortization [Table Text Block]
Disclosure that sets forth the estimated equity-indexed compensation plan fair value amortization to be recognized as an expense for each of the five succeeding fiscal years.
Fair Value Measurements, Recurring and Nonrecurring [Table]
Fair Value Measurements, Recurring and Nonrecurring [Table]
Measurement Frequency [Axis]
Measurement Frequency [Axis]
Fair Value, Measurement Frequency [Domain]
Fair Value, Measurement Frequency [Domain]
Recurring Fair Value Measures
Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member]
Level 1
Fair Value, Inputs, Level 1 [Member]
Level 3
Fair Value, Inputs, Level 3 [Member]
Recurring Fair Value Measurements
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Net derivative asset/(liability)
Rollforward of Level 3 Net Asset/(Liability)
Fair Value, Net Derivative Asset (Liability) Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation [Roll Forward]
Beginning Balance
Fair Value, Net Derivative Asset (Liability) Measured on Recurring Basis with Unobservable Inputs
Net gains for the period included in earnings
Fair Value, Net Derivative Asset (Liability) Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Inputs Reconciliation, Gain (Loss) Included in Earnings
Settlements
Fair Value, Net Derivative Asset (Liability) Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Inputs Reconciliation, Settlements
Derivatives entered into during the period
Fair Value, Net Derivative Asset (Liability) Measured on Recurring Basis Unobservable Inputs Reconciliation, Derivatives Entered Into
Amount of derivatives entered into classified as a derivative asset (liability) after deduction of derivative asset (liability), measured using unobservable inputs that reflect the entity's own assumption about the assumptions market participants would use in pricing.
Ending Balance
Change in unrealized gains/(losses) included in earnings relating to Level 3 derivatives still held at the end of the period
Fair Value, Net Derivative Asset (Liability) Measured on Recurring Basis, Change in Unrealized Gain (Loss)
Related Party Transactions [Abstract]
Related Party Transactions
Related Party Transactions Disclosure [Text Block]
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]
ASU 2017-05
Accounting Standards Update 2017-05 [Member]
Accounting Standards Update 2017-05 [Member]
ASU 2016-09
Accounting Standards Update 2016-09 [Member]
New Accounting Pronouncements or Change in Accounting Principle [Line Items]
New Accounting Pronouncements or Change in Accounting Principle [Line Items]
Increase in investments in unconsolidated entities
Increase in partners' capital
Cash outflow reclassed from operating activities
Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Operating Activities
Cash outflow reclassed to financing activities
Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Financing Activities
Components of other long-term assets, net of accumulated amortization
Schedule of Other Assets, Noncurrent [Table Text Block]
Components of intangible assets that have finite lives
Schedule of Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Table Text Block]
Estimated amortization expense related to finite-lived intangible assets for the next five years
Schedule of Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Future Amortization Expense [Table Text Block]
Inventory, Linefill and Base Gas and Long-term Inventory
Inventory Linefill and Base Gas and Long Term Inventory Disclosure [Text Block]
The complete disclosure related to inventory, linefill and base gas and long-term inventory. This may include, but is not limited to, the basis of stating inventory, linefill, and base gas and long-term inventory, the method of determining inventory, linefill and base gas and long-term inventory cost, the major classes of inventory, linefill and base gas and long-term inventory, and the nature of the cost elements included in inventory, linefill and base gas and long-term inventory. If inventory, linefill and base gas and long-term inventory is stated above cost, accrued net losses on firm purchase commitments for inventory, linefill and base gas and long-term inventory and losses resulting from valuing inventory, linefill and base gas and long-term inventory at the lower-of-cost-or-market may also be included.
Statement of Cash Flows [Abstract]
CASH FLOWS FROM OPERATING ACTIVITIES
Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Operating Activities, Continuing Operations [Abstract]
Reconciliation of net income to net cash provided by operating activities:
Adjustments to Reconcile Net Income (Loss) to Cash Provided by (Used in) Operating Activities [Abstract]
Depreciation and amortization
Inventory valuation adjustments (Note 4)
Deferred income tax expense/(benefit)
Settlement of terminated interest rate hedging instruments
Net Cash Paid (Received) for Terminated Hedging Instruments
The net cash paid (received) for terminated hedging instruments.
Change in fair value of Preferred Distribution Rate Reset Option (Note 12)
Equity earnings in unconsolidated entities
Distributions from unconsolidated entities
Proceeds from Equity Method Investment, Distribution
Other
Other Noncash Income (Expense)
Changes in assets and liabilities, net of acquisitions:
Increase (Decrease) in Operating Capital [Abstract]
Trade accounts receivable and other
Increase (Decrease) in Accounts and Other Receivables
Inventory
Increase (Decrease) in Inventories
Accounts payable and other current liabilities
Increase (Decrease) in Accounts Payable and Accrued Liabilities
Net cash provided by operating activities
CASH FLOWS FROM INVESTING ACTIVITIES
Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Investing Activities, Continuing Operations [Abstract]
Cash paid in connection with acquisitions, net of cash acquired (Note 6)
Investments in unconsolidated entities (Note 8)
Capital Contributions to Equity Method Investees
Cash outflow for capital contributions subsequent to the initial purchase of interest in equity method investments, to fund the entity's portion of development, construction or capital expansion projects of the equity method investees.
Additions to property, equipment and other
Payments to Acquire Property, Plant, and Equipment
Proceeds from sales of assets (Note 6)
Return of investment from unconsolidated entities (Note 8)
Proceeds from Equity Method Investment, Distribution, Return of Capital
Cash received from sales of linefill and base gas
Cash Received Related To Sales Of Linefill And Base Gas
Cash Received Related To Sales Of Linefill And Base Gas
Cash paid for purchases of linefill and base gas
Cash Paid Related to Purchases of Linefill and Base Gas
The cash outflow associated with the purchase of linefill and base gas.
Other investing activities
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, Continuing Operations [Abstract]
Net borrowings/(repayments) under commercial paper program (Note 10)
Proceeds from (Repayments of) Commercial Paper
Net borrowings under senior secured hedged inventory facility (Note 10)
Net Proceeds from (Repayments of) Hedged Inventory Facility
The net cash inflow (outflow) due to borrowings (repayments) on the hedged inventory facility.
Repayment under AAP senior secured revolving credit facility (Note 10)
Repayments of Lines of Credit
Repayment of AAP term loan (Note 10)
Repayments of Secured Debt
Proceeds from the issuance of senior notes (Note 10)
Proceeds from Issuance of Senior Long-term Debt
Repayments of senior notes (Note 10)
Repayments of Senior Debt
Net proceeds from the sale of Series A preferred units (Note 11)
Proceeds from Issuance of Convertible Preferred Stock
Net proceeds from the sale of Series B preferred units (Note 11)
Proceeds from Issuance of Preferred Limited Partners Units
Net proceeds from the sale of common units (Note 11)
Proceeds from Issuance of Common Limited Partners Units
Contributions from general partner
Distributions paid to common unitholders (Note 11)
Distribution Made to Limited Partner, Cash Distributions Paid
Distributions paid to general partner (Note 11)
Payments of Distributions to Affiliates
Other financing activities
Proceeds from (Payments for) Other Financing Activities
Net cash provided by/(used in) financing activities
Effect of translation adjustment on cash
Effect of Exchange Rate on Cash and Cash Equivalents, Continuing Operations
Net increase/(decrease) in cash and cash equivalents
Cash and Cash Equivalents, Period Increase (Decrease)
Cash and cash equivalents, beginning of period
Cash and cash equivalents, end of period
Cash paid for:
Supplemental Cash Flow Information [Abstract]
Interest, net of amounts capitalized
Interest Paid, Net
Income taxes, net of amounts refunded
Income Taxes Paid, Net
Income Taxes
Income Tax Disclosure [Text Block]
Loss Contingencies [Table]
Loss Contingencies [Table]
Mesa To Basin Pipeline
Mesa To Basin Pipeline Release [Member]
Represents information pertaining to the crude oil release from the Mesa to Basin Pipeline in Midland, Texas.
Litigation Case [Axis]
Litigation Case [Axis]
Litigation Case [Domain]
Litigation Case [Domain]
May 2016 Indictment
Indictment In California Superior Court Santa Barbara County [Member]
Indictment filed in California Superior Court, Santa Barbara County, with alleged violations of California law.
Class Action Lawsuits
Class Action Lawsuits [Member]
Represents information related to class action lawsuits filed against the company.
Securities Law Class Action Lawsuits
Securities Law Class Action Lawsuits [Member]
Represents information related to securities law class action lawsuits filed against the company.
Unitholder Derivative Lawsuits
Unitholder Derivative Lawsuits [Member]
Represents information related to unitholder derivative lawsuits filed against the company.
Trade Accounts Receivable And Other Receivables
Trade Accounts Receivable And Other Receivables [Member]
Primary financial statement caption encompassing trade accounts receivable and other receivables.
Accounts Payable and Accrued Liabilities
Accounts Payable and Accrued Liabilities [Member]
Other long-term liabilities and deferred credits
Regulatory Agency [Axis]
Regulatory Agency [Axis]
Regulatory Agency [Domain]
Regulatory Agency [Domain]
PHMSA
Pipeline And Hazardous Materials Safety Administration [Member]
Represents information related to the United States Department of Transportation's Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration ("PHMSA").
Legal, Environmental or Regulatory Matters
Loss Contingencies [Line Items]
Estimated undiscounted reserve for environmental liabilities
Accrual for Environmental Loss Contingencies, Gross
Estimated undiscounted reserve for environmental liabilities, short-term
Accrued Environmental Loss Contingencies, Current
Estimated undiscounted reserve for environmental liabilities, long-term
Accrued Environmental Loss Contingencies, Noncurrent
Amounts probable of recovery under insurance and from third parties under indemnification agreements
Recorded Third-Party Environmental Recoveries Receivable
Estimated size of release (in barrels)
Estimated Size of Release
Represents the estimated size of the pipeline release.
Number of occasions of alleged failure to carry out damage prevention program and other procedures
Number of Occasions Failed to Carry Out Program and Procedures
The number of occasions on which the regulatory agency maintains that the entity failed to carry out a written damage prevention program and other procedures, with such failures resulting in a pipeline release.
Estimated size of release to reach Pacific Ocean (in bbl)
Estimated Size Of Release To Reach Body Of Water
Estimated Size Of Release To Reach Body Of Water
Number of employees charged in indictment
Number of Employees Charged in Indictment
Number of the entity's employees charged pursuant to an indictment.
Total number of counts
Indictment, Total Number of Counts
Total number of counts included in the indictment.
Total number of counts dismissed
Indictment, Total Number of Counts Dismissed
Indictment, Total Number of Counts Dismissed
Number of felony charges dismissed
Indictment, Number of Felony Charges Dismissed
Indictment, Number of Felony Charges Dismissed
Number of misdemeanor charges relating to wildlife
Indictment, Number of Misdemeanor Charges Relating to Wildlife
Number of misdemeanor charges included in the indictment, related to wildlife allegedly taken.
Number of counts related to the release of crude oil or reporting of the release
Indictment, Number of Counts Related to the Release of Crude Oil or Reporting of the Release
Number of counts included in the indictment, related to the release of crude oil or reporting of the release, excluding charges relating to wildlife allegedly taken.
Number of felony charges
Indictment, Number of Felony Charges
Number of felony charges included in the indictment, related to the release of crude oil or reporting of the release.
Fines or penalties assessed
Loss Contingency Penalty or Fine Assessed
Represents penalty or fine assessed on the entity in connection with an environmental matter.
Number of cases filed during the period
Loss Contingency, New Claims Filed, Number
Number of cases administratively consolidated into a single proceeding
Loss Contingency, Claims Consolidated, Number
Loss Contingency, Claims Consolidated, Number
Aggregate total estimated costs
Loss Contingency, Estimate of Possible Loss
Recoveries from insurance carriers
Loss Contingency, Receivable, Proceeds
Total release costs probable of recovery from insurance carriers
Third Party Environmental Recoveries Received and Receivable
Total third-party recoveries related to environmental remediation obligations, including amounts received to date and estimated amounts recoverable.
Schedule of Related Party Transactions, by Related Party [Table]
Schedule of Related Party Transactions, by Related Party [Table]
Class C Shares
Shares Class C [Member]
Class C shares represent a non-economic limited partner interest that provides the holder the right to vote in elections of eligible directors together with the holders of Class A and Class B shares.
Oxy
Oxy [Member]
Occidental Petroleum Corporation ("Oxy") or its subsidiaries.
Equity Method Investees
Equity Method Investee [Member]
Other Commitments [Axis]
Other Commitments [Axis]
Other Commitments [Domain]
Other Commitments [Domain]
Agreement to Transport Crude Oil
Agreement To Transport Crude Oil On Pipeline Of Equity Method Investee [Member]
An agreement to transport crude oil on a pipeline that is owned by an equity method investee.
Related Party Transactions
Related Party Transaction [Line Items]
Class C shares of PAGP held by PAA
Limited Partnership Ownership Interest In Related Party Units
Number of limited partner units in the related party held by the reporting entity.
Costs reimbursed to general partner
Payment for Administrative Fees
Expenses paid on behalf of affiliates
Expenses Paid On Behalf Of Affiliate
Expenses, other than income taxes, paid on behalf of an affiliate pursuant to an agreement(including, but not limited to, expenses associated with (i) compensation for directors, director and officer liability insurance, (iii) listing exchange fees, (iv) investor relations expenses and (v) expenses related to legal, tax, financial advisory and accounting services).
Revenues
Revenue from Related Parties
Purchases and related costs
Related Party Transaction, Purchases from Related Party
Trade accounts receivable and other receivables
Due from Related Parties, Current
Accounts payable
Due to Related Parties, Current
Costs related to services utilized
Related Party Transaction, Expenses from Transactions with Related Party
Prepaid tariff costs
Prepaid Tariff Costs
Costs related to prepaid tariffs.
Consolidated finance subsidiary co-issuer
Consolidated Finance Subsidiary Issuer [Member]
A consolidated finance subsidiary which is a co-issuer of the entity's debt securities.
Lender Type [Axis]
Lender Type [Axis]
Lender Type [Axis]
Lender Type [Domain]
Lender Type [Domain]
[Domain] for Lender Type [Axis]
Non-extending Lender
Non-extending Lender [Member]
Non-extending Lender [Member]
Other income/(expense), net
Nonoperating Income (Expense) [Member]
6.50% senior notes due May 2018
8.75% senior notes due May 2019
5.88% senior notes due August 2016
Senior Notes Due In August 2016 At 5.88 Percent [Member]
Represents the 5.88 percent senior notes, which are due in August 2016.
5.25% senior notes due June 2015
Senior Notes Due In June2015 At5.25 Percent [Member]
Represents the 5.25 percent senior notes, which are due in June 2015.
3.95% senior notes due September 2015
Senior Notes Due In September2015 At3.95 Percent [Member]
Represents the 3.95 percent senior notes, which are due in September 2015.
Credit Facility [Axis]
Credit Facility [Axis]
Credit Facility [Domain]
Credit Facility [Domain]
Senior unsecured revolving credit facility
Senior Unsecured Revolving Credit Facility [Member]
Represents the PAA senior unsecured revolving credit facility.
Senior unsecured 364-day revolving credit facility
Senior Unsecured364 Day Revolving Credit Facility [Member]
Represents the senior unsecured 364-day revolving credit facility.
Letters of credit
Standby Letters of Credit [Member]
Maximum aggregate borrowing capacity
Line of Credit Facility, Maximum Borrowing Capacity
Committed borrowing capacity
Line of Credit Facility, Current Borrowing Capacity
Credit facility extensions available
Number of One Year Extensions of Revolving Credit Facility
Represents the number of one-year extensions provided for under the credit facility.
Number of years by which maturity date of credit facility may be extended
Line of Credit Facility Period for Which Term of Credit Facility May Be Extended
Represents the period for which the credit facility may be extended by the entity, pursuant to the terms of the credit agreement.
Consolidated subsidiary, ownership interest held by the parent (as a percent)
Subsidiary of Limited Liability Company or Limited Partnership, Ownership Interest
Repayments of senior notes
Offering price percentage
Senior Notes Public Offering Price
Percentage of face value at which senior notes are sold.
Loss on early redemption of senior notes
Gain (Loss) on Extinguishment of Debt
Debt instrument term
Debt Instrument, Term
Goodwill
Goodwill Disclosure [Text Block]
Operating Loss Carryforwards [Table]
Operating Loss Carryforwards [Table]
Income Tax Authority [Axis]
Income Tax Authority [Axis]
Income Tax Authority [Domain]
Income Tax Authority [Domain]
Foreign
Foreign Tax Authority [Member]
Operating Loss Carryforwards
Operating Loss Carryforwards [Line Items]
Net operating loss carryforwards
Operating Loss Carryforwards
Property, Plant and Equipment [Table]
Property, Plant and Equipment [Table]
Impaired Long-Lived Assets Held and Used by Type [Axis]
Impaired Long-Lived Assets Held and Used by Type [Axis]
Impaired Long-Lived Assets Held and Used, Asset Name [Domain]
Impaired Long-Lived Assets Held and Used, Asset Name [Domain]
Rail And Other Terminal Assets
Rail And Other Terminal Assets [Member]
Long-lived rail and other terminal assets.
Property, Plant and Equipment
Property, Plant and Equipment [Member]
Property, Plant and Equipment, Type [Axis]
Property, Plant and Equipment, Type [Axis]
Property, Plant and Equipment, Type [Domain]
Property, Plant and Equipment, Type [Domain]
Pipelines and related facilities
Pipelines [Member]
Storage, terminal and rail facilities
Storage Terminal And Rail Facilities [Member]
Long lived depreciable assets used primarily for the storage and terminalling of crude oil, refined products and liquefied petroleum gas, other natural gas-related petroleum products and rail facilities.
Trucking equipment and other
Trucking Equipment And Other [Member]
This element represents long lived, depreciable assets used for the primary purpose of moving people and products from one place to another and represents furniture and fixtures, computer hardware and other assets related to field property.
Construction in progress
Construction in Progress [Member]
Office property and equipment
Office Equipment [Member]
Land and other
Land And Other [Member]
This element represents the real estate assets held for productive use and related non-depreciable assets.
Property and Equipment
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Capitalized interest
Interest Costs Capitalized
Estimated useful lives
Property, Plant and Equipment, Useful Life
Property and equipment, gross
Depreciation expense
Depreciation
Non-cash charge related to write-down of long-lived assets
Impairment Of Long Lived Assets Held For Use Including Accelerated Depreciation
The aggregate amount of write-downs for impairments and accelerated depreciation recognized during the period for long lived assets held for use (including those held for disposal by means other than sale).
Fair Values Derivatives, Balance Sheet Location, by Derivative Contract Type [Table]
Fair Values Derivatives, Balance Sheet Location, by Derivative Contract Type [Table]
Derivative assets and liabilities
Derivatives, Fair Value [Line Items]
Asset derivatives fair value
Liability derivatives fair value
Initial margin
Initial Margin
The amount of cash or securities required by a broker or counterparty as security for a trading or derivatives securities position.
Variation margin posted
Variation Margin Posted Returned
Cash posted by (returned to) the reporting entity to (from) a broker or counterparty to comply with initial margin requirements.
Net broker receivable
Net loss deferred in AOCI
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Cumulative Changes in Net Gain (Loss) from Cash Flow Hedges, Effect Net of Tax
Net loss expected to be reclassified to earnings in the next twelve months
Cash Flow Hedge Gain (Loss) to be Reclassified within Twelve Months
Remaining loss expected to be reclassified to earnings through 2049
Cash Flow Hedge Gain (Loss) to be Reclassified Remaining Portion
The estimated net amount of existing gains or losses on cash flow hedges at the reporting date expected to be reclassified to earnings after the next twelve months.
Net deferred gain/(loss) recognized in AOCI on derivatives
Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) Recognized in Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Effective Portion, Net
Interest Rate Swaps
Interest Rate Swap [Member]
Schedule of terms of forward starting interest rate derivatives
Schedule of Derivative Instruments [Table Text Block]
Summary of open forward exchange contracts
Schedule of Notional Amounts of Outstanding Derivative Positions [Table Text Block]
Impact of derivative activities recognized in earnings
Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) [Table Text Block]
Summary of derivative assets and liabilities on Consolidated Balance Sheets on a gross basis
Schedule of Derivative Instruments in Statement of Financial Position, Fair Value [Table Text Block]
Schedule of net broker receivable (payable)
Schedule of Due to (from) Broker-Dealers and Clearing Organizations [Table Text Block]
Schedule of derivative financial assets that are subject to offsetting, including enforceable master netting arrangements
Offsetting Assets [Table Text Block]
Schedule of derivative financial liabilities that are subject to offsetting, including enforceable master netting arrangements
Offsetting Liabilities [Table Text Block]
Net deferred gain/(loss) recognized in AOCI for derivatives
Schedule of Derivative Instruments, Effect on Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Table Text Block]
Schedule of derivative financial assets and liabilities accounted for at fair value on a recurring basis, by level within the fair value hierarchy
Schedule of Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring Basis [Table Text Block]
Reconciliation of changes in fair value of derivatives classified as Level 3
Fair Value, Net Derivative Asset (Liability) Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation [Table Text Block]
Schedule of Calculation of Basic and Diluted Net Income Per Common Unit [Table]
Schedule of Calculation of Basic and Diluted Net Income Per Common Unit [Table]
Schedule reflecting the calculation of basic and diluted net income per common unit.
Net Income Per Common Unit
Basic and Diluted Net Income Per Common Unit [Line Items]
Line items represent financial concepts included in a table. These concepts are used to disclose reportable information associated with domain members defined in one or many axes to the table.
Basic Net Income per Common Unit
Net Income (Loss), Per Outstanding Limited Partnership Unit, Basic, Net of Tax [Abstract]
Distributions to preferred unitholders
Preferred Stock Dividends, Income Statement Impact
Distributions to general partner
General Partner Distributions
Distributions to participating securities
Distributions to Participating Securities
Distributions to participating securities pertaining to current period earnings.
Undistributed loss allocated to general partner
Undistributed Earnings (Loss) Allocated to General Partner, Basic
Amount of undistributed earnings (loss) allocated to the general partner of a partnership for the basic earnings (loss) per share or per unit calculation under the two-class method.
Other
Other Allocated Earnings, Basic
Amount of earnings allocated to other for the basic earnings (loss) per share or per unit calculation under the two-class method.
Net income allocated to common unitholders
Net Income (Loss) Allocated to Common Unitholders Basic
This element represents the net income (loss) allocated to common unitholders in the calculation of basic net income per common unit after deducting amounts allocated to preferred unitholders, participating securities and the 2% general partner's interest, as applicable, under the two class method.
Basic weighted average common units outstanding (in units)
Weighted Average Limited Partnership Units Outstanding, Basic
Basic net income per common unit (in dollars per unit)
Diluted Net Income per Common Unit
Net Income (Loss), Net of Tax, Per Outstanding Limited Partnership Unit, Diluted [Abstract]
Distributions to preferred unitholders
Preferred Stock Dividends, Income Statement Impact, Diluted
The amount of preferred stock dividends that is an adjustment to net income apportioned to common stockholders in the calculation of diluted net income per common unit.
Undistributed loss allocated to general partner
Undistributed Earnings (Loss) Allocated to General Partner, Diluted
Amount of undistributed earnings (loss) allocated to the general partner of a partnership for the diluted earnings (loss) per share or per unit calculation under the two-class method.
Other
Other Allocated Earnings, Diluted
Amount of earnings allocated to other for the diluted earnings (loss) per share or per unit calculation under the two-class method.
Net income allocated to common unitholders
Net Income (Loss) Allocated to Common Unitholders Diluted
This element represents the net income (loss) allocated to common unitholders in the calculation of diluted net income per common unit after deducting amounts allocated to preferred unitholders, participating securities and the 2% general partner's interest, as applicable, under the two class method.
Effect of dilutive securities:
Incremental Weighted Average Shares Attributable to Dilutive Effect [Abstract]
LTIP units (in units)
Weighted Average Number Diluted Limited Partnership Units Outstanding Adjustment
Diluted weighted average common units outstanding (in units)
Weighted Average Limited Partnership Units Outstanding, Diluted
Diluted net income per common unit (in dollars per unit)
Organization and Basis of Consolidation and Presentation
Organization, Consolidation and Presentation of Financial Statements Disclosure [Text Block]
Award Type [Axis]
Award Type [Axis]
Equity Award [Domain]
Equity Award [Domain]
Liability Awards
Liability Awards [Member]
Incentive compensation liability awards awarded to employees consisting of a stated number of phantom shares or units.
Accrued liability related to all outstanding LTIP awards and DERs
Deferred Compensation Share-based Arrangements, Liability, Current and Noncurrent
Short-term accrued liability related to all outstanding LTIP awards and DERs
Deferred Compensation Share-based Arrangements, Liability, Current
Long-term accrued liability related to all outstanding LTIP awards and DERs
Deferred Compensation Share-based Arrangements, Liability, Classified, Noncurrent
Outstanding (in units)
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Nonvested, Number of Shares [Roll Forward]
Outstanding at beginning of period (in units)
Granted (in units)
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Grants in Period
Vested (in units)
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Vested in Period
Modified (in units)
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other Than Options, Modified in Period
Number of units for which the vesting criteria was modified during the period.
Cancelled or forfeited (in units)
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Forfeited in Period
Outstanding at end of period (in units)
Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value per Unit
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Additional Disclosures [Abstract]
Outstanding at beginning of period (in dollars per unit)
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Nonvested, Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value
Granted (in dollars per unit)
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Grants in Period, Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value
Vested (in dollars per unit)
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Vested in Period, Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value
Modified (in dollars per unit)
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Modified, Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value
Grant date fair value of awards modified during the period.
Cancelled or forfeited (in dollars per unit)
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Forfeitures, Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value
Outstanding at end of period (in dollars per unit)
Units issued in connection with the settlement of vested awards, net of tax withholding (in units)
Stock Issued During Period, Shares, Share-based Compensation, Net of Forfeitures
Units withheld for taxes (in units)
Shares Paid for Tax Withholding for Share Based Compensation
Vested awards settled in cash (in units)
Share Based Compensation Arrangement By Share Based Payment Award, Shares Vested In Period Settled In Cash
Share Based Compensation Arrangement By Share Based Payment Award, Shares Vested In Period Settled In Cash
Other Commitments [Table]
Other Commitments [Table]
Commitments
Other Commitments [Line Items]
Leases, rights-of-way easements and other
Leases [Abstract]
2018
Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments Due, Next Twelve Months
2019
Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments, Due in Two Years
2020
Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments, Due in Three Years
2021
Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments, Due in Four Years
2022
Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments, Due in Five Years
Thereafter
Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments, Due Thereafter
Total
Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments Due
Other commitments
Other Commitment, Fiscal Year Maturity [Abstract]
2018
Other Commitment, Due in Next Twelve Months
2019
Other Commitment, Due in Second Year
2020
Other Commitment, Due in Third Year
2021
Other Commitment, Due in Fourth Year
2022
Other Commitment, Due in Fifth Year
Thereafter
Other Commitment, Due after Fifth Year
Total
Other Commitment
Total
Contractual Obligation, Fiscal Year Maturity Schedule [Abstract]
2018
Contractual Obligation, Due in Next Fiscal Year
2019
Contractual Obligation, Due in Second Year
2020
Contractual Obligation, Due in Third Year
2021
Contractual Obligation, Due in Fourth Year
2022
Contractual Obligation, Due in Fifth Year
Thereafter
Contractual Obligation, Due after Fifth Year
Total
Contractual Obligation
Lease expense
Operating Leases, Rent Expense, Minimum Rentals
Expenses associated with agreements
Unrecorded Unconditional Purchase Obligation, Purchases
Components of income tax expense
Schedule of Components of Income Tax Expense (Benefit) [Table Text Block]
Summary of differences between tax expense based on the statutory federal income tax rate and the effective income tax expense
Schedule of Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation [Table Text Block]
Deferred tax assets and liabilities
Schedule of Deferred Tax Assets and Liabilities [Table Text Block]
Statement of Partners' Capital [Abstract]
Limited Partners
Limited Partner [Member]
Noncontrolling Interests
Noncontrolling Interest [Member]
Increase (Decrease) in Partners' Capital [Roll Forward]
Increase (Decrease) in Partners' Capital [Roll Forward]
Balance, beginning of period
Distributions (Note 11)
Sale of Series B preferred units
Sale of Series A preferred units
Sales of common units
Acquisition of interest in Advantage Joint Venture (Note 6)
Stock Issued During Period, Value, Acquisitions
Sale of interest in SLC Pipeline LLC (Note 6)
Noncontrolling Interest, Decrease from Deconsolidation
Simplification Transactions (Note 1)
Partners Capital Equity Transaction Other
The change in each class of partners' capital accounts during the period related to an equity transactions not provided for in the taxonomy.
Other
Partners' Capital, Other
Balance, end of period
Income Statement [Abstract]
REVENUES
Revenues [Abstract]
Supply and Logistics segment revenues
Sales and Related Revenues
Revenue from the sale of crude oil, NGL and natural gas during the period.
Transportation segment revenues
Pipeline Tariff Activities Trucking and Related Revenues
Revenue from the transportation of crude oil and NGL on pipelines, gathering systems, trucks and barges during the period.
Facilities segment revenues
Storage Terminalling Processing and Related Revenues
Revenue from the storage, terminalling and throughput services for crude oil, refined products, NGL and natural gas, as well as NGL fractionation and isomerization services and natural gas and condensate processing services during the period.
Total revenues
COSTS AND EXPENSES
Costs and Expenses [Abstract]
Purchases and related costs
Cost of Goods and Services Sold
Field operating costs
Operating Costs and Expenses
General and administrative expenses
General and Administrative Expense
Total costs and expenses
Costs and Expenses
OPERATING INCOME
OTHER INCOME/(EXPENSE)
Nonoperating Income (Expense) [Abstract]
Interest expense (net of capitalized interest of $35, $47 and $57, respectively)
Current income tax expense
Deferred income tax (expense)/benefit
NET INCOME PER COMMON UNIT (NOTE 3):
Earnings Per Unit [Abstract]
Net income allocated to common unitholders — Basic
Net income allocated to common unitholders — Diluted
Diluted weighted average common units outstanding (in units)
Diluted net income per common unit (in dollars per unit)
Acquisitions and Dispositions
Mergers, Acquisitions and Dispositions Disclosures [Text Block]
Distributions Made to Limited Partner [Table]
Distributions Made to Limited Partner [Table]
Public
Public Unit Holders [Member]
Public Unit Holders [Member]
Distribution Made to Limited Partner [Line Items]
Distribution Made to Limited Partner [Line Items]
Distributions paid to limited partners
Total distributions paid
Distributions paid to General Partner
General Partners' Capital Account, Period Distribution Amount
Distributions per common unit (in dollars per unit)
Distribution Made to Limited Partner, Distributions Paid, Per Unit
Property and equipment
Business Combination, Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed, Property, Plant, and Equipment
Intangible assets
Business Combination, Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed, Intangible Assets, Other than Goodwill
Other assets and liabilities, net (including $4 million of cash acquired)
Business Combination, Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed, Other, Net
Amount of other net assets (liabilities) acquired (assumed) at the acquisition date.
Identifiable assets acquired and liabilities assumed
Business Combination, Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired, Goodwill, and Liabilities Assumed, Net
Cash acquired
Cash Acquired from Acquisition
Schedule of Equity Method Investments [Table]
Schedule of Equity Method Investments [Table]
Advantage Pipeline Holdings LLC (“Advantage Joint Venture”)
Advantage Pipeline, LLC [Member]
Advantage Pipeline, LLC [Member]
BridgeTex Pipeline Company, LLC (“BridgeTex”)
Bridge Tex Pipeline Company L L C [Member]
BridgeTex Pipeline Company LLC, a crude oil pipeline company.
Butte Pipe Line Company
Butte Pipeline Company [Member]
Butte Pipe Line Company (Butte), a crude oil pipeline company.
Caddo Pipeline LLC
Caddo Pipeline Llc [Member]
Caddo Pipeline LLC, a crude oil pipeline company.
Cheyenne Pipeline LLC (“Cheyenne”)
Cheyenne Pipeline Llc [Member]
Cheyenne Pipeline LLC.
Diamond Pipeline LLC (“Diamond”)
Diamond Pipeline Llc [Member]
Diamond Pipeline LLC, a crude oil pipeline company.
Eagle Ford Pipeline LLC (“Eagle Ford Pipeline”)
Eagle Ford Pipeline L L C [Member]
Eagle Ford Pipeline LLC, a crude oil pipeline company.
Eagle Ford Terminals Corpus Christi LLC (“Eagle Ford Terminals”)
Eagle Ford Terminals Corpus Christi Llc [Member]
Eagle Ford Terminals Corpus Christi LLC, a crude oil terminal and dock company.
Frontier Aspen LLC
Frontier Pipeline Company [Member]
Frontier Pipeline Company (Frontier), a crude oil pipeline company.
Midway Pipeline LLC
Midway Pipeline LLC [Member]
Midway Pipeline LLC [Member]
Saddlehorn Pipeline Company, LLC
Saddlehorn Pipeline Company Llc [Member]
Saddlehorn Pipeline Company LLC, a crude oil pipeline company.
Settoon, Towing LLC
Settoon Towing L L C [Member]
Settoon Towing, LLC (Settoon Towing), a barge transportation services company.
STACK Pipeline LLC (“STACK”)
STACK Pipeline LLC [Member]
STACK Pipeline LLC [Member]
White Cliffs Pipeline, LLC
White Cliffs Pipeline Llc [Member]
White Cliffs Pipeline, LLC, a crude oil pipeline company.
Investments in Unconsolidated Entities
Schedule of Equity Method Investments [Line Items]
Purchase price
Business Combination, Consideration Transferred
Units contributed
Stock Issued During Period, Shares, Acquisitions
Value of units contributed
Payments to acquire investments
Payments to Acquire Equity Method Investments
Return of investment from unconsolidated entities
Capital contributions to equity method investees excluding capitalized interest
Capital Contributions To Equity Method Investees Excluding Capitalized Interest
Cash outflow for capital contributions (excluding capitalized interest) subsequent to the initial purchase of interest in equity method investments, to fund the entity's portion of development, construction or capital expansion projects of the equity method investees, net of cash received as a return of investment.
Return of cash contributions
Proceeds from Equity Method Investment, Return Of Cash Contributions
Proceeds from Equity Method Investment, Return Of Cash Contributions
Capitalized interest related to contributions to unconsolidated entities
Amount by which investments in unconsolidated entities exceeded our share of the underlying equity in the net assets
Equity Method Investment, Difference Between Carrying Amount and Underlying Equity
Partners' Capital and Distributions [Abstract]
Partners' Capital and Distributions [Abstract]
Balance, beginning of period (in units)
Issuances of Series A preferred units in connection with in-kind distributions (in units)
Sale of Series B preferred units (in units)
Sale of common units (in units)
Issuance of common units in connection with acquisition of interest in Advantage Joint Venture (Note 6) (in units)
Issuance of common units under LTIP (in units)
Partners' Capital Account, Units, Unit-based Compensation
Issuance of common units in connection with Simplification Transactions (in units)
Partners' Capital Account, Units, Issued From Simplification Transactions
Partners' Capital Account, Units, Issued From Simplification Transactions
Balance, end of period (in units)
Net Income Per Common Unit
Earnings Per Share [Text Block]
Schedule of related party transactions
Schedule of Related Party Transactions [Table Text Block]
Credit agreements
Paa Credit Facilities [Member]
The entity's credit facilities, including a senior secured hedged inventory credit facility, a senior unsecured revolving credit facility and a senior unsecured 364-day revolving credit facility.
Credit agreements and commercial paper program
Line Of Credit And Commercial Paper [Member]
Represents information pertaining to the line of credit and commercial paper agreement entered into by the entity.
Weighted-average maturity of long-term debt
Long Term Debt Weighted Average Maturity
This element represents the weighted-average maturity of long-term debt, including current maturities.
Coverage ratio of debt-to-EBITDA, maximum
Debt Instrument, Coverage Ratio Debt to EBITDA Maximum
Represents the maximum ratio of debt to EBITDA (earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation and amortization) required to be maintained under the credit agreement.
Ratio of debt-to-EBITDA during acquisition period, maximum
Debt Instrument, Coverage Ratio Debt to EBITDA Acquisition Period Maximum
Represents the maximum ratio of debt to EBITDA (earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation and amortization) required to be maintained during acquisition period under the credit agreement.
Threshold for acquisition period qualification
Acquisition Measurement Period Threshold
Represents the minimum acquisition amount for the debt-to-EBITDA coverage ratio covenant compliance requirement to change.
Total borrowings
Proceeds from Issuance of Debt
Total repayments
Repayments of Debt
Periods for which letters of credit are issued
Outstanding letters of credit
Letters of Credit Outstanding, Amount
Maturities
Long-term Debt, Fiscal Year Maturity [Abstract]
2018
Long-term Debt, Maturities, Repayments of Principal in Next Twelve Months
2019
Long-term Debt, Maturities, Repayments of Principal in Year Two
2020
Long-term Debt, Maturities, Repayments of Principal in Year Three
2021
Long-term Debt, Maturities, Repayments of Principal in Year Four
2022
Long-term Debt, Maturities, Repayments of Principal in Year Five
Thereafter
Long-term Debt, Maturities, Repayments of Principal after Year Five