Operating Segments (Details 2) (USD $) In Millions, unless otherwise specified	3 Months Ended		9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2012	Sep. 30, 2011	Sep. 30, 2012	Sep. 30, 2011
Reconciliation of segment profit to net income attributable to Plains
Segment profit	$ 466	$ 426	$ 1,404	$ 1,139
Depreciation and amortization	(210)	(65)	(356)	(191)
Interest expense	(74)	(62)	(214)	(190)
Other income/(expense), net	4	(5)	6	(24)
Income tax expense	(13)	(6)	(43)	(28)
NET INCOME	173	288	797	706
Net income attributable to noncontrolling interests	(8)	(7)	(23)	(18)
NET INCOME ATTRIBUTABLE TO PLAINS	$ 165	$ 281	$ 774	$ 688