Goodwill and Intangible Assets Disclosure [Abstract] Schedule of Goodwill [Table] Schedule of Goodwill [Table] Segments [Axis] Segments [Axis] Segment [Domain] Segments [Domain] West [Member] West [Member] -- None. No documentation exists for this element. -- Access Midstream [Member] Access Midstream [Member] Access Midstream segment Northeast G&P [Member] Northeast G And P [Member] -- None. No documentation exists for this element. -- Goodwill [Line Items] Goodwill [Line Items] Goodwill, beginning of period Goodwill Goodwill, Purchase Accounting Adjustments Goodwill, Purchase Accounting Adjustments Impairment of goodwill Goodwill, Impairment Loss Goodwill, end of period Other Income and Expenses [Abstract] Schedule of Segment Reporting Information, by Segment [Table] Schedule of Segment Reporting Information, by Segment [Table] Income Statement Location [Axis] Income Statement Location [Axis] Income Statement Location [Domain] Income Statement Location [Domain] Other (income) expense - net [Member] Other Operating Income (Expense) [Member] Net insurance recoveries - Geismar Incident [Member] Net insurance recoveries - Geismar incident [Member] Net insurance recoveries - Geismar incident Selling, general, and administrative expenses [Member] Selling, General and Administrative Expenses [Member] Operating and maintenance expenses [Member] Operation and maintenance [Member] -- None. No documentation exists for this element. -- Interest incurred [Member] Interest Expense [Member] Service revenues [Member] Service Revenues [Member] Service Revenues [Member] Product costs [Member] Product Costs [Member] Product Costs [Member] Other income (expense) - net [Member] Other Nonoperating Income (Expense) [Member] Statement, Business Segments [Axis] Atlantic-Gulf [Member] Atlantic Gulf [Member] -- None. No documentation exists for this element. -- NGL & Petchem Services [Member] NGL And Petchem Services [Member] -- None. No documentation exists for this element. -- Business Interruption Loss [Axis] Business Interruption Loss [Axis] Business Interruption Loss [Domain] Business Interruption Loss [Domain] Geismar Incident [Member] Geismar Incident [Member] -- None. No documentation exists for this element. -- Loss Contingencies by Nature of Contingency [Axis] Loss Contingency Nature [Axis] Loss Contingency, Nature [Domain] Loss Contingency, Nature [Domain] Producer claim [Member] Producer Claim [Member] Producer Claim [Member] Regulatory Asset [Axis] Regulatory Asset [Axis] Regulatory Asset [Domain] Regulatory Asset [Domain] Asset Impairment for Regulatory Action [Member] Asset Impairment for Regulatory Action [Member] Business Combination Integration Related Costs [Axis] Business Combination Integration Related Costs [Axis] Business Combination Integration Related Costs [Axis] Business Combination Integration Related Costs [Domain] Business Combination Integration Related Costs [Domain] Business Combination Integration Related Costs [Domain] Acquisition and Merger [Member] Acquisition and Merger [Member] Acquisition and Merger [Member] Acquisition [Member] Acquisition [Member] Acquisition [Member] Transition costs [Member] Transition [Member] Transition [Member] Merger [Member] Merger [Member] Merger [Member] Segment Reporting Information [Line Items] Segment Reporting Information [Line Items] Impairment of certain assets Tangible Asset Impairment Charges Loss related to sale of certain assets Gain (Loss) on Disposition of Assets Contingency gain settlement Gain Related To Claims From Purchase Of Business In A Prior Period Gain related to claims from purchase of business in a prior period Net gain related to acreage dedication release Gain Related To Acreage Dedication Release Income from release of a customer's acreage dedication. Loss associated with a producer claim Loss Contingency, Loss in Period Amortization of regulatory asset associated with asset retirement obligations Amortization of Regulatory Asset Insurance recoveries Insurance Recoveries Insurance deductible expense Insurance deductible expense Insurance deductibles included in operating expense Insurable expenses in excess of our deductibles Insurable Expense in Excess of our Deductibles Insurable expense in excess of our deductibles included in other (income) expense. Business combination, acquisition related costs Business Combination, Acquisition Related Costs Business combination, integration related costs Business Combination, Integration Related Costs Minimum volume commitment fees Fees and Commissions, Other Inventory Write-down Inventory Write-down Allowance for funds used during construction, capitalized cost of equity Public Utilities, Allowance for Funds Used During Construction, Capitalized Cost of Equity Gain on extinguishment of debt Gains (Losses) on Extinguishment of Debt Debt Disclosure [Abstract] Line of Credit Facility [Table] Line of Credit Facility [Table] Debt Instrument [Axis] Debt Instrument [Axis] Debt Instrument, Name [Domain] Debt Instrument, Name [Domain] Variable Interest Term Loan due 2018 [Member] Variable Interest Term Loan due 2018 [Member] Variable Interest Term Loan due 2018 [Member] Quarters Ending Time [Axis] Quarters Ending Time [Axis] Quarters Ending Time [Axis] Quarters Ending Time [Domain] Quarters Ending Time [Domain] [Domain] for Quarters Ending Time [Axis] Dec 2015, Mar & Jun 2016 [Member] Dec 2015, Mar & Jun 2016 [Member] Dec 2015, Mar & Jun 2016 [Member] Sep & Dec 2016 [Member] Sep & Dec 2016 [Member] Sep & Dec 2016 [Member] Mar 2017 & Subsequent Quarters [Member] Mar 2017 & Subsequent Quarters [Member] Mar 2017 & Subsequent Quarters [Member] Transco and Northwest Pipeline [Axis] Transco and Northwest Pipeline [Axis] Transco and Northwest Pipeline [Axis] Transco and Northwest Pipeline [Domain] Transco and Northwest Pipeline [Domain] [Domain] for Transco and Northwest Pipeline [Axis] Legal Entity [Axis] Legal Entity [Axis] Entity [Domain] Entity [Domain] Northwest Pipeline LLC [Member] Northwest Pipeline LLC [Member] Northwest Pipeline LLC. Transcontinental Gas PipeLine Company, LLC [Member] Transcontinental Gas Pipe Line Company, LLC [Member] Transcontinental Gas Pipe Line Company, LLC [Member]. Williams Partners L.P. [Member] Williams Partners L.P. [Member] Williams Partners L.P. [Member] Williams Partners L. P. [Member] Williams Partners L. P. [Member] Credit Facility [Axis] Credit Facility [Axis] Credit Facility [Domain] Credit Facility [Domain] Swingline Loan [Member] Swingline Loan [Member] Swingline Loan [Member] Commercial Paper [Member] Commercial Paper [Member] Letter of Credit [Member] Letter of Credit [Member] Letters Of Credit Under Certain Bilateral Bank Agreements [Member] Letters Of Credit Under Certain Bilateral Bank Agreements [Member] Letters of Credit Under Certain Bilateral Bank Agreements [Member] Short-term facility [Member] Short-term facility [Member] Short-term facility [Member] Variable Rate [Axis] Variable Rate [Axis] Variable Rate [Domain] Variable Rate [Domain] Rate addition to federal funds effective rate [Member] Rate addition to federal funds effective rate [Member] Rate addition to federal funds effective rate [Member] Rate addition to London interbank offered rate (LIBOR) [Member] Rate addition to London interbank offered rate (LIBOR) [Member] Rate addition to London interbank offered rate (LIBOR) [Member] Range [Axis] Range [Axis] Range [Domain] Range [Domain] Subsequent Event Type [Axis] Subsequent Event Type [Axis] Subsequent Event Type [Domain] Subsequent Event Type [Domain] Subsequent Event [Member] Subsequent Event [Member] Credit Facility and Commercial Paper [Line Items] Line of Credit Facility [Line Items] Credit facility, capacity Line of Credit Facility, Maximum Borrowing Capacity Long-term debt Long-term Debt, Gross Credit facility, loans outstanding Long-term Line of Credit Credit facility, letters of credit outstanding Letters of Credit Outstanding, Amount Commercial paper, outstanding Commercial Paper Commercial paper, weighted average interest rate Short-term Debt, Weighted Average Interest Rate Commercial paper, maximum maturity Debt Instrument, Term Additional amount by which credit facility can be increased Additional Amount By Which Credit Facility Can Be Increased Additional amount by which the credit facility can be increased. Credit facility, basis spread on variable rate Debt Instrument, Basis Spread on Variable Rate Maximum ratio of debt to EBITDA Maximum Ratio Of Debt To EBITDA Maximum ratio of debt to earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation, and amortization permitted under covenants. Maximum ratio of debt to EBITDA after acquisition Maximum Ratio Of Debt To EBITDA After Acquisition Maximum ratio of debt to EBITDA permitted under covenants for the fiscal quarter and the two following fiscal quarters after an acquisition. Maximum ratio of debt to capitalization Maximum Ratio Of Debt To Capitalization The maximum ratio of debt to capitalization (defined as net worth plus debt) permitted under the covenants. Statement of Financial Position [Abstract] Equity: Partners' Capital, Including Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest [Abstract] Limited partners capital account units outstanding Limited Partners' Capital Account, Units Outstanding Class B Partners Capital Account Units Outstanding Class B Partners Capital Account Units Outstanding Class B Partners Capital Account Units Outstanding Class D Partners Capital Account Units Outstanding Class D Partners Capital Account Units Outstanding The number of Class D units outstanding. Allowance for Doubtful Accounts Receivable, Current Allowance for Doubtful Accounts Receivable, Current Income Tax Disclosure [Abstract] Income Tax Expense (Benefit), Continuing Operations [Abstract] Income Tax Expense (Benefit), Continuing Operations [Abstract] Current: Current Income Tax Expense (Benefit), Continuing Operations [Abstract] State Current State and Local Tax Expense (Benefit) Foreign Current Foreign Tax Expense (Benefit) Total Current Income Tax Expense (Benefit) Deferred: Deferred Income Tax Expense (Benefit), Continuing Operations [Abstract] State Deferred State and Local Income Tax Expense (Benefit) Foreign Deferred Foreign Income Tax Expense (Benefit) Total Deferred Income Tax Expense (Benefit) Provision (benefit) for income taxes Income Tax Expense (Benefit) Organization, Consolidation and Presentation of Financial Statements [Abstract] Schedule of Regulatory Assets and Liabilities [Table Text Block] Schedule of Regulatory Assets and Liabilities [Text Block] Employee Benefits and Share-based Compensation [Abstract] Pension and Other Postretirement Benefits Disclosure [Text Block] Pension and Other Postretirement Benefits Disclosure [Text Block] Accounting standards issued and adobted [Abstract] Accounting standards issued and adobted [Abstract] Debt issuance costs Unamortized Debt Issuance Expense Income Tax Contingency [Table] Income Tax Contingency [Table] Income Tax Authority [Axis] Income Tax Authority [Axis] Income Tax Authority [Domain] Income Tax Authority [Domain] TEXAS TEXAS Alberta Provincial Tax [Domain] Alberta Provincial Tax [Domain] Alberta Provincial Tax [Domain] Income Tax Contingency [Line Items] Income Tax Contingency [Line Items] Provision (Benefit) for Income Taxes [Abstract] Provision (Benefit) for Income Taxes (Textuals) [Abstract] ProvisionBenefitForIncomeTaxesTextualsAbstract Income (Loss) from Continuing Operations before Income Taxes, Foreign Income (Loss) from Continuing Operations before Income Taxes, Foreign Deferred Tax Liabilities, Gross Deferred Tax Liabilities, Gross Income Taxes Paid, Net Income Taxes Paid, Net Unrecognized Tax Benefits Unrecognized Tax Benefits 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 [Member] UNITED STATES Canada [Member] CANADA Revenues from External Customers and Long-Lived Assets [Line Items] Revenues from External Customers and Long-Lived Assets [Line Items] Revenues from external customers Revenues Long-lived assets Long-lived assets Long-lived assets. Debt Disclosure [Text Block] Debt Disclosure [Text Block] Inventory Disclosure [Abstract] Inventory Net [Abstract] Inventory, Net [Abstract] Natural gas liquids, olefins, and natural gas in underground storage Energy Related Inventory, Natural Gas Liquids Materials, supplies, and other Other Inventory, Net of Reserves Total Inventories Inventory, Net Schedule of Business Acquisitions, by Acquisition [Table] Schedule of Business Acquisitions, by Acquisition [Table] Partner Type [Axis] Partner Type [Axis] Partner Type of Partners' Capital Account, Name [Domain] Partner Type of Partners' Capital Account, Name [Domain] General Partner [Member] General Partner [Member] Class of Stock [Axis] Class of Stock [Axis] Class of Stock [Domain] Class of Stock [Domain] Common Units [Member] Common Units [Member] Common Units Class B Units [Member] Class B Units [Member] Class B Units [Member] Atlantic Gulf [Member] NGL And Petchem Services [Member] The Williams Companies Inc [Member] Williams Companies Inc [Member] -- None. No documentation exists for this element. -- Gulfstar One [Member] Gulfstar One [Member] Gulfstar One, the primary beneficiary of a variable interest entity. Constitution Pipeline Company LLC [Member] Constitution Pipeline Company LLC [Member] Constitution Pipeline Company LLC, the primary beneficiary of a variable interest entity. Access Midstream Partners Lp [Member] Access Midstream Partners Lp [Member] Investment, Name [Axis] Investment, Name [Axis] Equity Method Investee, Name [Domain] Investment, Name [Domain] Utica East Ohio Midstream, LLC [Member] Utica East Ohio Midstream, LLC [Member] Utica East Ohio Midstream, LLC [Member] Delaware Basin Gas Gathering System [Member] Delaware Basin Gas Gathering System [Member] Delaware Basin Gas Gathering System [Member] Appalachia Midstream Services, LLC [Member] Appalachia Midstream Services, LLC [Member] Appalachia Midstream Services, LLC [Member] Laurel Mountain Midstream, LLC [Member] Laurel Mountain Midstream, LLC [Member] -- None. No documentation exists for this element. -- Caiman Energy II, LLC [Member] Caiman Energy II [Member] -- None. No documentation exists for this element. -- Gulfstream Natural Gas System, L.L.C. [Member] Gulfstream Natural Gas System, LLC [Member] -- None. No documentation exists for this element. -- Discovery Producer Services LLC [Member] Discovery Producer Services LLC [Member] -- None. No documentation exists for this element. -- Overland Pass Pipeline Company LLC [Member] Overland Pass Pipeline Company LLC [Member] -- None. No documentation exists for this element. -- Business Acquisition [Axis] Business Acquisition [Axis] Business Acquisition, Acquiree [Domain] Business Acquisition, Acquiree [Domain] WPZ Merger Public Unit Exchange [Member] WPZ Merger Public Unit Exchange [Member] WPZ Merger Public Unit Exchange [Member] Access Midstream Partners Acquisition [Member] Access Midstream Partners Acquisition [Member] Access Midstream Partners Acquisition [Member] Canada Acquisition [Member] Canada Acquisition [Member] Canada Acquisition [Member] Geismar Acquisition [Member] Geismar Acquisition [Member] 83.3 percent undivident interest and operatorship of olefins production facility in Feismar LA along iwth refinery-grade propylene splitter and pipelines in the Gulf region Statement, Equity Components [Axis] Equity Components [Axis] Equity Component [Domain] Equity Component [Domain] Stock Conversion Description [Axis] Stock Conversion Description [Axis] Conversion of Stock, Name [Domain] Conversion of Stock, Name [Domain] ACMP Units Into WPZ Units [Member] ACMP Units Into Merged Partnership Units [Member] ACMP Units Into Merged Partnership Units [Member] Publicly Held Pre-merger WPZ Common Units into ACMP Common Units [Member] Publicly Held WPZ Common Units into ACMP Common Units [Member] Publicly Held WPZ Common Units into ACMP Common Units [Member] Privately Held Pre-merger WPZ Units Into ACMP Common Units [Member] Privately Held WPZ Units Into ACMP Common Units [Member] Privately Held WPZ Units Into ACMP Common Units [Member] Class D Pre-merger WPZ Units Into WPZ Common Units [Member] Class D WPZ Units Into WPZ Common Units [Member] Class D WPZ Units Into WPZ Common Units [Member] Name of Property [Axis] Name of Property [Axis] Name of Property [Domain] Name of Property [Domain] Geismar [Member] Geismar [Member] -- None. No documentation exists for this element. -- Conway Fractionator [Member] Conway Fractionator [Member] Conway Fractionator [Member] Subsidiary of Limited Liability Company or Limited Partnership [Line Items] Subsidiary of Limited Liability Company or Limited Partnership [Line Items] General and Description Of Business [Abstract] Description Of Business [Abstract] Description Of Business [Abstract] Parent, limited partner ownership percentage Limited Liability Company (LLC) or Limited Partnership (LP), Members or Limited Partners, Ownership Interest Parent, general partner ownership percentage Limited Liability Company (LLC) or Limited Partnership (LP), Managing Member or General Partner, Ownership Interest Termination Fee Gain (Loss) on Contract Termination Maximum Reduction Of Quarterly Incentive Distributions Maximum Reduction Of Quarterly Incentive Distributions Maximum Reduction Of Quarterly Incentive Distributions Conversion Ratio Conversion Ratio Conversion ratio Shares Converted Shares Converted The number of shares converted as a result of an event. Equity Method Investment, Ownership Percentage Equity Method Investment, Ownership Percentage Subsidiary, ownership percentage Subsidiary of Limited Liability Company or Limited Partnership, Ownership Interest Variable Interest Entity Ownership Percentage Variable Interest Entity, Qualitative or Quantitative Information, Ownership Percentage Basis of Presentation [Abstract] Basis Of Presentation [Abstract] Basis Of Presentation [Abstract] Business Acquisition, Percentage of Voting Interests Acquired Business Acquisition, Percentage of Voting Interests Acquired Payments to Acquire Businesses, Gross Payments to Acquire Businesses, Gross Business Acquisition, Equity Interest Issued or Issuable, Number of Shares Business Acquisition, Equity Interest Issued or Issuable, Number of Shares Proceeds from Previous Acquisition Proceeds from Previous Acquisition Reduction in incentive distribution rights payment Reduction in incentive distribution rights payment Amount IDR payment reduced due to temporary waiver of IDRs Regulatory Assets and Liabilities Disclosure [Abstract] Regulatory Assets, Current Regulatory Assets, Current Regulatory Assets, Noncurrent Regulatory Assets, Noncurrent Total regulatory assets Regulatory Assets Regulatory Liabilities, Current Regulatory Liability, Current Regulatory Liabilities, Noncurrent Regulatory Liability, Noncurrent Total regulatory liabilities Regulatory Liabilities Minimum period of construction for capitalization of interest Minimum period of construction for capitalization of interest Minimum period of construction for capitalization of interest. Minimum total project cost for capitalization of interest Minimum total project cost for capitalization of interest Minimum total project cost for capitalization of interest. Schedule of Defined Benefit Plans Disclosures [Table] Schedule of Defined Benefit Plans Disclosures [Table] Defined Benefit Plans and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans Disclosures [Axis] Defined Benefit Plans and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans [Axis] Defined Benefit Plans and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans [Domain] Defined Benefit Plan and Other Postretirement Benefit Plan [Domain] Pension Benefits [Member] Pension Plan [Member] Other Postretirement Benefits [Member] Other Postretirement Benefit Plan [Member] Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items] Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items] Defined Benefit Plan, Benefit Obligation Defined Benefit Plan, Benefit Obligation Defined Benefit Plan, Funded Status of Plan Defined Benefit Plan, Funded Status of Plan Defined Contribution Plan, Cost Recognized Defined Contribution Plan, Cost Recognized Pension Expense Pension Expense Other Postretirement Benefit Cost (Credit) Other Postretirement Benefit Expense Other Income and Expense [Text Block] Other Income and Other Expense Disclosure [Text Block] Investments [Abstract] Investments [Text Block] Equity Method Investments and Joint Ventures Disclosure [Text Block] Property, Plant and Equipment [Abstract] Schedule of Property, Plant and Equipment [Table] Property, Plant and Equipment [Table] Public Utility Regulated or Unregulated Status [Axis] Regulation Status [Axis] Regulated and Unregulated Operation [Domain] Regulated and Unregulated Operation [Domain] Nonregulated [Member] Unregulated Operation [Member] Regulated [Member] Regulated Operation [Member] Property, Plant and Equipment by Type [Axis] Property, Plant and Equipment, Type [Axis] Property, Plant and Equipment, Type [Domain] Property, Plant and Equipment, Type [Domain] Natural gas gathering and processing facilities [Member] Gas Gathering and Processing Equipment [Member] Natural gas transmission facilities [Member] Gas, Transmission and Distribution Equipment [Member] Construction in Progress [Member] Construction in Progress [Member] Other Capitalized Property Plant and Equipment [Member] Other Capitalized Property Plant and Equipment [Member] Excess Of Original Cost Of Regulated Facilities [Member] Excess Of Original Cost Of Regulated Facilities [Member] Excess Of Original Cost Of Regulated Facilities [Member] Range [Domain] Minimum [Member] Minimum [Member] Maximum [Member] Maximum [Member] Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items] Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items] Property, Plant and Equipment Property, Plant and Equipment, Net [Abstract] Property, plant, and equipment, at cost Property, Plant and Equipment, Gross Accumulated depreciation and amortization Accumulated Depreciation, Depletion and Amortization, Property, Plant, and Equipment Property, plant, and equipment - net Property, Plant and Equipment, Net Property, Plant and Equipment, Useful Life Property, Plant and Equipment, Useful Life Regulated Property, Plant, and Equipment, Depreciation Rate Regulated Property, Plant, and Equipment, Depreciation Rate Regulated Property, Plant, and Equipment, Depreciation Rate Depreciation and amortization Depreciation Period of straight-line amortization Finite-Lived Intangible Asset, Useful Life Property, Plant and Equipment [Text Block] Property, Plant and Equipment Disclosure [Text Block] Business Combinations [Abstract] Investment, Name [Domain] Investment Identifier Scheme [Axis] Investment Identifier Scheme [Axis] Investment Identifier Scheme [Domain] Investment Identifier Scheme [Domain] Additional Investment [Member] Additional Investment [Member] Additional Investment [Member] Eagle Ford Gathering System [Member] Eagle Ford Gathering System [Member] Eagle Ford Gathering System [Member] ACMP's subsidiaries [Member] ACMP's subsidiaries [Member] ACMP's subsidiaries [Member] Scenario [Axis] Scenario [Axis] Scenario, Unspecified [Domain] Scenario, Unspecified [Domain] Pro Forma [Member] Pro Forma [Member] Selling, General and Administrative Expenses [Member] Interest Expense [Member] Business Acquisition [Line Items] Business Acquisition [Line Items] Business Combination, Provisional Information, Initial Accounting Incomplete, Adjustment, Property, Plant, and Equipment Business Combination, Provisional Information, Initial Accounting Incomplete, Adjustment, Property, Plant, and Equipment Business Combination, Provisional Information, Initial Accounting Incomplete, Adjustment, Goodwill Business Combination, Provisional Information, Initial Accounting Incomplete, Adjustment, Goodwill This element represents the amount of any measurement period adjustment (as defined) realized during the reporting period to goodwill in connection with a business combination for which the initial accounting was incomplete. Business Combination, Provisional Information, Initial Accounting Incomplete, Adjustment, Intangibles Business Combination, Provisional Information, Initial Accounting Incomplete, Adjustment, Intangibles Business Combination, Provisional Information, Initial Accounting Incomplete, Adjustment, Investments Business Combination, Provisional Information, Initial Accounting Incomplete, Adjustment, Investments This element represents the amount of any measurement period adjustment (as defined) realized during the reporting period to investments acquired in connection with a business combination for which the initial accounting was incomplete. Business Combination, Acquisition Related Costs Number Of Miles Of Pipeline Acquired Number Of Miles Of Pipeline Acquired Number Of Miles Of Pipeline Acquired Business Acquisition, Purchase Price Allocation [Abstract] Business Combination, Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired, Goodwill, and Liabilities Assumed, Net [Abstract] Accounts receivable Business Combination, Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed, Current Assets, Receivables Other current assets Business Combination, Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed, Current Assets, Other Investments Business Combination Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired And Liabilities Assumed Investments Business Combination Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired And Liabilities Assumed Investments Property, plant, and equipment Business Combination, Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed, Property, Plant, and Equipment Goodwill Other intangible assets Business Combination, Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed, Finite-Lived Intangibles Current liabilities Business Combination, Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed, Current Liabilities Debt Business Combination, Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed, Noncurrent Liabilities, Long-term Debt Other noncurrent liabilities Business Combination, Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed, Noncurrent Liabilities, Other Noncontrolling interest Business Combination, Acquisition of Less than 100 Percent, Noncontrolling Interest, Fair Value Equity Business Combination, Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed, Net Intangible Assets, Net (Excluding Goodwill) [Abstract] Intangible Assets, Net (Excluding Goodwill) [Abstract] Acquired Finite-lived Intangible Assets, Weighted Average Useful Life Acquired Finite-lived Intangible Assets, Weighted Average Useful Life Percentage Of Finite Lived Intangible Assets Impacted By Our Intent Or Ability To Renew Or Extend Arrangement Percentage Of Finite Lived Intangible Assets Impacted By Our Intent Or Ability To Renew Or Extend Arrangement Percentage Of Finite Lived Intangible Assets Impacted By Our Intent Or Ability To Renew Or Extend Arrangement Acquired Finite-lived Intangible Asset, Weighted-Average Period before Renewal or Extension Acquired Finite-lived Intangible Asset, Weighted-Average Period before Renewal or Extension Business Acquisition, Pro Forma Information [Abstract] Business Acquisition, Pro Forma Information [Abstract] Business Acquisition, Pro Forma Revenue Business Acquisition, Pro Forma Revenue Business Acquisition, Pro Forma Net Income (Loss) Business Acquisition, Pro Forma Net Income (Loss) Business Combination, Pro Forma Information, Revenue of Acquiree since Acquisition Date, Actual Business Combination, Pro Forma Information, Revenue of Acquiree since Acquisition Date, Actual Business Combination, Pro Forma Information, Earnings or Loss of Acquiree since Acquisition Date, Actual Business Combination, Pro Forma Information, Earnings or Loss of Acquiree since Acquisition Date, Actual Equity Method Investments and Joint Ventures [Abstract] Equity Method Investments and Joint Ventures [Abstract] Payments to Acquire Equity Method Investments Payments to Acquire Equity Method Investments Partners' Capital Notes [Abstract] Incentive Distributions Quarterly Target Amount [Abstract] Incentive Distributions Quarterly Target Amount [Abstract] Incentive Distributions Quarterly Target Amount [Abstract] Distribution Percentage By Incentive Distribution Target Amount [Table] Distribution Percentage By Incentive Distribution Target Amount [Table] -- None. No documentation exists for this element. -- Distribution Percentage By Incentive Distribution Target Amount Abstract [Axis] Distribution Percentage By Incentive Distribution Target Amount Axis Abstract [Axis] -- None. No documentation exists for this element. -- Distribution Percentage By Incentive Distribution Target Amount [Domain] Distribution Percentage By Incentive Distribution Target Amount [Domain] -- None. No documentation exists for this element. -- Minimum Quarterly Distribution Per Unit [Member] Minimum Quarterly Distribution Per Unit [Member] Minimum Quarterly Distribution Per Unit [Member] First Target Distribution [Member] First Target Distribution [Member] First Target Distribution [Member] Second Target Distribution [Member] Second Target Distribution [Member] Second Target Distribution [Member] Third Target Distribution [Member] Third Target Distribution [Member] Third Target Distribution [Member] Thereafter [Member] Target Distribution Thereafter [Member] Target Distribution Thereafter [Member] Incentive Distribution Target Amount Per Unit [Line Items] Incentive Distribution Target Amount Per 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. Unitholders Distribution Percentage Made To Limited Partners Percentage of quarterly distributions made to limited partners based on incetive distribution target amounts. General Partner Distribution Percentage Made To General Partner Percentage of quarterly distributions made to the general partners based on incetive distribution target amounts. Quarterly Distribution Target Amount Quarterly Distribution Target Amount Quarterly distribution target amount related to incentive distributions. Consolidation Items [Axis] Consolidation Items [Axis] Consolidation Items [Domain] Consolidation Items [Domain] Operating Segments [Member] Operating Segments [Member] Corporate, Non-Segment [Member] Corporate, Non-Segment [Member] Reconciliation of Modified EBITDA to Net Income (Loss) Reconciliation of Operating Profit (Loss) from Segments to Consolidated [Abstract] Modified EBITDA Modified Ebitda Modified Ebitda as defined: Net income before interest, taxes, depreciation, amortization, other investing income (loss) net, equity earnings (losses), accretion for ARO for nonregulated operations, and discontinued operations, and including proportional ebitda for equity method investments. Asset Retirement Obligation Accretion Expense For Nonregulated Operations Asset Retirement Obligation Accretion Expense For Nonregulated Operations Asset Retirement Obligation Accretion Expense For Nonregulated Operations Depreciation and amortization expenses Depreciation, Depletion and Amortization Impairment of goodwill Equity earnings (losses) Income (Loss) from Equity Method Investments Impairment of equity-method investments Equity Method Investment, Other than Temporary Impairment Other investing income (loss) – net Investment Income, Nonoperating Proportional Modified EBITDA of equity-method investments Proportional Modified Ebitda Equity Method Investments Proportional Modified Ebitda Equity Method Investments Interest Expense Interest Expense (Provision) benefit for income taxes Net income (loss) Net Income (Loss), Including Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest Fair Value Disclosures [Abstract] Fair Value Measurements, Recurring and Nonrecurring [Table] Fair Value Measurements, Recurring and Nonrecurring [Table] Balance Sheet Location [Axis] Balance Sheet Location [Axis] Balance Sheet Location [Domain] Balance Sheet Location [Domain] Goodwill [Member] Goodwill [Member] Property, plant, and equipment, net [Member] Property, Plant and Equipment [Member] Investments [Member] Investments [Member] Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items] Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items] Schedule of Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring Basis [Table Text Block] Schedule of Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring Basis [Table Text Block] Fair Value Measurements, Nonrecurring [Table Text Block] Fair Value Measurements, Nonrecurring [Table Text Block] Concentration of receivables, net of allowances, by product or service [Table Text Block] Schedule of Accounts, Notes, Loans and Financing Receivable [Table Text Block] Variable Interest Entity Disclosures [Abstract] -- None. No documentation exists for this element. -- Schedule of Variable Interest Entities [Table Text Block] Schedule of Variable Interest Entities [Table Text Block] Disclosure of Compensation Related Costs, Share-based Payments [Abstract] Schedule of Nonvested Restricted Stock Units Activity [Table Text Block] Schedule of Nonvested Restricted Stock Units Activity [Table Text Block] Acquisitions [Text Block] Business Combination Disclosure [Text Block] Reconciliation of Assets from Segment to Consolidated [Table] Reconciliation of Assets from Segment to Consolidated [Table] Eliminations [Member] Intersegment Eliminations [Member] Northeast G And P [Member] Segment Reporting, Asset Reconciling Item [Line Items] Segment Reporting, Asset Reconciling Item [Line Items] Total assets Assets Investments Equity Method Investments Additions to long-lived assets Payments to Acquire Productive Assets Commitments and Contingencies Disclosure [Abstract] Schedule of Related Party Transactions By Related Party [Table] Schedule of Related Party Transactions, by Related Party [Table] Insurance Type and Tier Identifier [Axis] Insurance Type and Tier Identifier [Axis] Type and Tier Identifier [Domain] Type and Tier Identifier [Domain] General Liability Coverage [Member] General Liability Coverage [Member] -- None. No documentation exists for this element. -- Gas Pipeline [Member] Gas Pipeline [Member] Natural gas underground storage facilities [Member] Natural Gas Under Ground Storage Facilities [Member] Natural gas underground storage facilities. Unrecorded Unconditional Purchase Obligation by Category of Item Purchased [Axis] Unrecorded Unconditional Purchase Obligation by Category of Item Purchased [Axis] Unconditional Purchase Obligation, Category of Goods or Services Acquired [Domain] Unconditional Purchase Obligation, Category of Goods or Services Acquired [Domain] Capital Addition Purchase Commitments [Member] Capital Addition Purchase Commitments [Member] Contingent Liabilities [Line Items] Contingent Liabilities [Line Items] Contingent Liabilities. Accrued environmental loss liabilities Accrual for Environmental Loss Contingencies Aggregate Annual Limit of Insurance Maximum Insurance Recoverable Amount Maximum amount recoverable under various insurance policies. Insurance Deductibles Insurance Deductibles Amount of risk retained by the entity before the insurance arrangement begins to provide coverage Commitments For Construction And Acquisition Of Property Plant And Equipment Unrecorded Unconditional Purchase Obligation Assets [Abstract] Assets [Abstract] Current assets: Assets, Current [Abstract] Cash and cash equivalents Cash and Cash Equivalents, at Carrying Value Accounts and notes receivable (net of allowance of $3 at December 31, 2015 and $0 at December 31, 2014) Receivables, Net, Current Inventories Other current assets Other Assets, Current Total current assets Assets, Current Property, plant, and equipment – net Goodwill Other intangible assets – net of accumulated amortization Intangible Assets, Net (Excluding Goodwill) Regulatory assets, deferred charges, and other Other Assets, Noncurrent Total assets Liabilities [Abstract] Liabilities [Abstract] Current liabilities: Liabilities, Current [Abstract] Accounts payable: Accounts Payable, Current [Abstract] Trade Accounts Payable, Trade, Current Affiliate Accounts Payable, Related Parties, Current Accrued interest Interest Payable, Current Asset retirement obligations Asset Retirement Obligation, Current Other accrued liabilities Accrued Liabilities, Current Long-term debt due within one year Long-term Debt and Capital Lease Obligations, Current Commercial paper Total current liabilities Liabilities, Current Long-term Debt and Capital Lease Obligations Long-term Debt and Capital Lease Obligations Asset retirement obligations Asset Retirement Obligations, Noncurrent Deferred income tax liabilities Deferred Tax Liabilities, Net, Noncurrent Regulatory liabilities, deferred income, and other Other Liabilities and Deferred Revenue, Noncurrent Contingent liabilities and commitments (Note 17) Commitments and Contingencies Partners’ equity: Partners' Capital [Abstract] Common units (588,546,022 and 362,556,333 units outstanding at December 31, 2015 and 2014, respectively) Limited Partners' Capital Account Class B units (14,784,015 units outstanding as of December 31, 2015) Class B Limited Partner Capital Account Class B Limited Partner Capital Account Class D units (21,574,035 units outstanding at December 31, 2014) Class D Limited Partner Capital Account The amount of the Class D limited partners' ownership interests. General partner General Partners' Capital Account Accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax Total partners’ equity Partners' Capital Noncontrolling interests in consolidated subsidiaries Partners' Capital Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest Total equity Partners' Capital, Including Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest Total liabilities and equity Liabilities and Equity Income Statement [Abstract] Revenues: Revenues [Abstract] Service revenues Sales Revenue, Services, Net Product sales Sales Revenue, Goods, Net Total revenues Costs and expenses: Costs and Expenses [Abstract] Product costs Cost of Purchased Oil and Gas Operating and maintenance expenses Operating Costs and Expenses Depreciation and amortization expenses Selling, general, and administrative expenses Selling, General and Administrative Expense Impairment of goodwill Net insurance recoveries – Geismar Incident Insured Event, Gain (Loss) Other (income) expense – net Other Operating Income (Expense), Net Total costs and expenses Costs and Expenses Operating income Operating Income (Loss) Interest incurred Interest Costs Incurred Interest capitalized Interest Costs Capitalized Adjustment Other income (expense) – net Other Nonoperating Income (Expense) Income (loss) before income taxes Income (Loss) from Continuing Operations before Income Taxes, Extraordinary Items, Noncontrolling Interest Provision (benefit) for income taxes Less: Net income attributable to noncontrolling interests Net Income (Loss) Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest Net income (loss) attributable to controlling interests Net Income (Loss) Attributable to Parent Allocation of net income (loss) for calculation of earnings per common unit: Partnership Income [Abstract] Net income (loss) attributable to controlling interests Allocation of net income (loss) to general partner Net Income (Loss) Allocated to General Partners Allocation of net income (loss) to Class B units Net Income Allocated To Class B Limited Partners For Calculating Earnings Per Unit Net Income Allocated To Class B Limited Partners For Calculating Earnings Per Unit Allocation of net income (loss) to Class D units Net Income Allocated To Class D Limited Partners For Calculating Earnings Per Unit Net Income Allocated To Class D Limited Partners For Calculating Earnings Per Unit Allocation of net income (loss) to common units Net Income (Loss) Allocated to Limited Partners Diluted earnings (loss) per common unit Net Income (Loss), Per Outstanding Limited Partnership Unit, Basic, Net of Tax [Abstract] Net income (loss) per common unit Net Income (Loss), Per Outstanding Limited Partnership Unit, Basic, Net of Tax Weighted-average number of common units outstanding (thousands) Weighted Average Limited Partnership Units Outstanding, Basic Diluted earnings (loss) per common unit Net Income (Loss), Net of Tax, Per Outstanding Limited Partnership Unit, Diluted [Abstract] Diluted net income (loss) per common unit Net Income (Loss), Net of Tax, Per Outstanding Limited Partnership Unit, Diluted Diluted weighted-average number of common units outstanding (thousands) Weighted Average Limited Partnership Units Outstanding, Diluted Cash distributions per common unit Distribution Made to Limited Partner, Distributions Declared, Per Unit Other Comprehensive Income (Loss): Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax [Abstract] Net unrealized gain (loss) from derivative instruments Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Unrealized Gain (Loss) on Derivatives Arising During Period, Net of Tax Reclassifications into earnings of net derivative instruments (gain) loss Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Reclassification Adjustment from AOCI on Derivatives, Net of Tax Foreign currency translation adjustments Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Foreign Currency Transaction and Translation Adjustment, before Tax Other comprehensive income (loss) Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax Comprehensive income (loss) Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax, Including Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest Less: Comprehensive income (loss) attributable to noncontrolling interests Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax, Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest Comprehensive income (loss) attributable to controlling interests Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax, Attributable to Parent Schedule of Equity Method Investments [Table] Schedule of Equity Method Investments [Table] Equity-Method Investment Debt Due November 1, 2015 [Member] Equity-Method Investment Debt Due November 1, 2015 [Member] Equity-Method Investment Debt Due November 1, 2015 [Member] Equity-Method Investment Debt Due June 1, 2016 [Member] Equity-Method Investment Debt Due June 1, 2016 [Member] Equity-Method Investment Debt Due June 1, 2016 [Member] Impairment Of Equity-Method Investments [Member] Impairment Of Equity-Method Investments [Member] Impairment Of Equity-Method Investments [Member] Income Loss From Equity Method Investment [Member] Income Loss From Equity Method Investment [Member] Income Loss From Equity Method Investment [Member] as a location in the income statement dimension Appalachia Midstream Investments [Member] Appalachia Midstream Investments [Member] Appalachia Midstream Investments [Member] Caiman Energy II LLC [Member] Caiman Energy Ii Llc [Member] -- None. No documentation exists for this element. -- Other [Member] Other Equity Method Investment [Member] Total equity method investments not separately disclosed. Schedule of Equity Method Investments [Line Items] Schedule of Equity Method Investments [Line Items] Impairment of equity-method investments Income (Loss) from Equity Method Investments Contribution to equity-method investment for repayment of debt Contribution to Gulfstream for repayment of debt Contribution to Gulfstream for repayment of debt Investment, Ownership Percentage Equity Method Investment, Difference Between Carrying Amount and Underlying Equity Equity Method Investment, Difference Between Carrying Amount and Underlying Equity Equity Method Investment, payments to purchase or contributions Equity Method Investment, dividends or distributions Proceeds from Equity Method Investment, Dividends or Distributions Special distribution from equity-method investment Special Distribution From Gulfstream Special cash distribution received from equity-method investee. Special distribution repayable to equity-method investment Due to Affiliate Equity-method investment debt Summarized Financial Position of Equity Method Investments Equity Method Investment, Summarized Financial Information [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 Summarized Results of Operations of Equity Method Investments Equity Method Investment, Summarized Financial Information, Income Statement [Abstract] Gross revenue Equity Method Investment, Summarized Financial Information, Revenue Operating income Equity Method Investment Summarized Financial Information Operating Income Equity method investment summarized financial information operating income. Net income Equity Method Investment, Summarized Financial Information, Net Income (Loss) Equity [Abstract] Statement [Table] Statement [Table] Class B [Member] Class B [Member] Class B [Member] Class D [Member] Class D [Member] Units associated with the February 2014 Canadian Dropdown. Statement [Line Items] Statement [Line Items] Distributions Made to Members or Limited Partners [Abstract] Distributions Made to Members or Limited Partners [Abstract] Per Unit Distribution (Paid) Distribution Made to Limited Partner, Distributions Paid, Per Unit Amortization of beneficial conversion feature of Class D units Amortization of beneficial conversion feature of Class D units Amortization of beneficial conversion feature of Class D units. Class B Units Issued In Lieu Of Cash Distributions Class B Units Issued In Lieu Of Cash Distributions Class B Units Issued In Lieu Of Cash Distributions Class D Units Issued In Lieu Of Cash Distributions Class D Units Issued In Lieu Of Cash Distributions The number of Class D units issued in lieu of quarterly cash distribution. Allocation of net income among general partner limited partners and noncontrolling interests Allocation Of Net Income Among General Partner Limited Partners And Noncontrolling Interests [Abstract] Allocation of net income among general partner, limited partners, and noncontrolling interests. Allocation of net income to general partner: Allocation of Net Income To General Partner [Abstract] -- None. No documentation exists for this element. -- Net income (loss) Net income applicable to pre-merger operations allocated to general partner NetIncomeApplicableToPreMergerOperations Net income applicable to pre-merger operations. Net income applicable to pre-partnership operations allocated to general partner Net Income Applicable To Pre Partnership Operations Allocated To General Partner Net income applicable to pre partnership operations allocated to general partner. Net income applicable to noncontrolling interests Costs charged directly to the general partner Net Reimbursable Costs to General Partner Net reimbursable costs credited back to general partner. Income (loss) subject to 2% allocation of general partner interest Income subject to allocation of general partner interest Income subject to 2% allocation of general partner interest. General partner's share of net income General partner's allocated share of net income (loss) before items directly allocable to general partner interest General Partners Allocated Share Of Net Income Before Items Directly Allocable To General Partner Interest General partner's allocated share of net income before items directly allocable to general partner interest. Priority allocations, including incentive distributions, paid to general partner Priority Allocations Paid To General Partner Priority allocations, including incentive distributions, paid to general partner Pre-merger net income allocated to general partner interest Pre-partnership net income allocated to general partner interest Costs charged directly to the general partner Net income allocated to general partner's equity Allocation Of Net Income To General Partner Aggregate amount of net income allocated to the general partner for capital allocation. Net income (loss) allocated to Class B limited partners' equity NetIncomeAllocatedToClassBLimitedPartners Net income allocated to Class B limited partners Net income allocated to Class D limited partners' equity Net Income Allocated To Class D Limited Partners Net Income Allocated To Class D Limited Partners Net income applicable to noncontrolling interests Net income (loss) allocated to common limited partners' equity Net Income Allocation To Common Limited Partner Aggregate amount of net income allocated to limited partners for capital allocation. Adjustments to reconcile Net income (loss) allocated to common limited partners' equity to Allocation of net income (loss) to common units ReconciliationAdjustmentsForNetIncomeAllocation [Abstract] Adjustments to reconcile Net income allocated to common limited partners' equity to Allocation of net income to common units Incentive distributions paid Incentive Distribution, Distribution Incentive distributions declared IncentiveDistributionsDeclared Total dollar amount of incentive distributions declared during the period. Impact of unit issuance timing and other ImpactOfUnitIssuanceTiming The impact of unit issuance timing in regard to the period income is allocated versus the period included in the cash distributions. Allocation of net income (loss) to common units Investments [Table Text Block] Equity Method Investments [Table Text Block] Contributions [Table Text Block] EquityMethodInvestmentContributionsTextBlock [Table Text Block] Tabular disclosure of contributions paid to companies accounted for by the equity method. Dividends and distributions [Table Text Block] Equity Method Investment Dividends Or Distributions [Text Block] Tabular disclosure of dividends or distributions received from companies accounted for by the equity method. Summarized Financial Position and Results of Operations of Equity Method Investments [Table Text Block] Equity Method Investment Summarized Financial Position And Results Of Operations [Table Text Block] Tabular disclosure of summarized financial position and results of operations of equity method investments. Williams Companies Inc [Member] Financial Instrument [Axis] Financial Instrument [Axis] Financial Instruments [Domain] Financial Instruments [Domain] Option on Securities [Member] Option on Securities [Member] Partners' Capital Account, Units, Sale of Units Partners' Capital Account, Units, Sale of Units Offering Costs, Partnership Interests Offering Costs, Partnership Interests Net Proceeds from Issuance of Common Limited Partners Units Proceeds from Issuance of Common Limited Partners Units Partners' Capital Account, Units, Sold in Public Offering Partners' Capital Account, Units, Sold in Public Offering Partners' Capital Account, Units, Sold in Private Placement Partners' Capital Account, Units, Sold in Private Placement Days after the end of each quarter to receive cash distributions Days After End Of Each Quarter to Receive Cash Distributions The number of days after the end of each quarter to receive cash distributions.. Percentage of outstanding units voting as a single class to remove general partner Percentage Of Outstanding Units Voting To Remove General Partner The percentage of outstanding units voting as a single class needed to remove the general partner. Schedule of Components of Income Tax Expense (Benefit) [Table Text Block] Schedule of Components of Income Tax Expense (Benefit) [Table Text Block] Schedule of Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation [Table Text Block] Schedule of Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation [Table Text Block] Propertyl, Plant, and Equipment [Table Text Block] Property, Plant and Equipment [Table Text Block] Asset Retirement Obligation [Table Text Block] Asset Retirement Obligation Disclosure [Text Block] Contingent Liabilities [Text Block] Commitments and Contingencies Disclosure [Text Block] Income Tax Disclosure [Text Block] Income Tax Disclosure [Text Block] Debt Instruments [Abstract] Debt Instruments [Abstract] Schedule of Long-term Debt Instruments [Table] Schedule of Long-term Debt Instruments [Table] 7.85% Senior Unsecured Notes Due 2026 [Member] 7.85% Senior Unsecured Notes Due 2026 [Member] 7.85% Senior Unsecured Notes Due 2026 [Member] 3.8% Senior Unsecured Notes due 2015 [Member] 3.8% Senior Unsecured Notes due 2015 [Member] 3.8% Senior Unsecured Notes due 2015 [Member] 3.9% Senior Unsecured Notes due 2025 [Member] 3.9% Senior Unsecured Notes due 2025 [Member] 3.9% Senior Unsecured Notes due 2025 [Member] 4.9% Senior Unsecured Notes due 2045 [Member] 4.9% Senior Unsecured Notes due 2045 [Member] 4.9% Senior Unsecured Notes due 2045 [Member] 4.3% Senior Unsecured Notes Due 2024 [Member] 4.3% Senior Unsecured Notes Due 2024 [Member] 4.3% Senior Unsecured Notes Due 2024 [Member] 5.4% Senior Unsecured Notes Due 2044 [Member] 5.4% Senior Unsecured Notes Due 2044 [Member] 5.4% Senior Unsecured Notes Due 2044 [Member] 4.5% Senior Unsecured Notes due 2023 [Member] 4.5% Senior Unsecured Notes due 2023 [Member] 4.5% Senior Unsecured Notes due 2023 [Member] 5.8% Senior Unsecured Notes due 2043 [Member] 5.8% Senior Unsecured Notes due 2043 [Member] 5.8% Senior Unsecured Notes due 2043 [Member] 5.875% Senior Unsecured Notes due 2021 [Member] 5.875% Senior Unsecured Notes due 2021 [Member] 5.875% Senior Unsecured Notes due 2021 [Member] 3.6% Senior Unsecured Notes due 2022 [Member] 3.6% Senior Unsecured Notes due 2022 [Member] 3.6% Senior Unsecured Notes due 2022 [Member] 4% Senior Unsecured Notes due 2025 [Member] 4% Senior Unsecured Notes due 2025 [Member] 4% senior unsecured notes due 2025 [Member] 5.1% Senior Unsecured Notes due 2045 [Member] 5.1% Senior Unsecured Notes due 2045 [Member] 5.1% senior unsecured notes due 2045 [Member] Debt Instrument [Line Items] Debt Instrument [Line Items] Long-term debt retired Extinguishment of Debt, Amount Long-term debt face amount Debt Instrument, Face Amount Long-term debt interest rate Debt Instrument, Interest Rate, Stated Percentage Long-term Debt, Current Maturities Long-term Debt, Current Maturities Repayments of Long-term Debt Repayments of Long-term Debt Reconciliation of Revenue from Segments to Consolidated [Table] Reconciliation of Revenue from Segments to Consolidated [Table] Products and Services [Axis] Products and Services [Axis] Products and Services [Domain] Products and Services [Domain] Service [Member] Service [Member] Service member Product [Member] Product [Member] Segment Reporting, Revenue Reconciling Item [Line Items] Segment Reporting, Revenue Reconciling Item [Line Items] Revenues Other financial information: Other Financial Information [Abstract] Other financial information. Proportional Modified EBITDA of equity-method investments Change of control payment percentage of 101% [Table] Change Of Control Payment Percentage [Table] Change of control payment percentage of 101% [Table] Change Of Control Payment Percentage [Line Items] Change Of Control Payment Percentage [Line Items] [Line Items] for Change of control payment percentage of 101% [Table] Debt Instrument, Face Amount Change Of Control Payment Percentage Change Of Control Payment Percentage Change of control payment percentage of 101% Allocation of net income among our general partner, limited partners, and noncontrolling interests Allocation Of Net Income Among General Partner Limited Partners And Noncontrolling Interests [Table Text Block] Allocation of net income among our general partner, limited partners, and noncontrolling interests. Schedule of Long-term Debt Instruments [Table Text Block] Schedule of Long-term Debt Instruments [Table Text Block] Schedule of Maturities of Long-term Debt [Table Text Block] Schedule of Maturities of Long-term Debt [Table Text Block] Schedule of Line of Credit Facilities [Table Text Block] Schedule of Line of Credit Facilities [Table Text Block] Schedule of Future Minimum Rental Payments for Operating Leases [Table Text Block] Schedule of Future Minimum Rental Payments for Operating Leases [Table Text Block] Schedule of Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Table] Schedule of Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Table] Laser Acquisition [Member] Laser Acquisition [Member] Laser Acquisition [Member] Caiman Acquisition [Member] Caiman Acquisition [Member] Caiman Acquisition [Member] 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] Contractual customer relationships [Member] Customer Relationships [Member] Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items] Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items] Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Gross Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Gross Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Accumulated Amortization Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Accumulated Amortization Business Combination, Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed, Finite-Lived Intangibles Amortization of Intangible Assets Amortization of Intangible Assets Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Amortization Expense, Next Twelve Months Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Amortization Expense, Next Twelve Months Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Amortization Expense, Year Two Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Amortization Expense, Year Two Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Amortization Expense, Year Three Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Amortization Expense, Year Three Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Amortization Expense, Year Four Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Amortization Expense, Year Four Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Amortization Expense, Year Five Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Amortization Expense, Year Five Cash payments for interest (net of amounts capitalized) Interest Paid, Net Inventories [Text Block] Inventory Disclosure [Text Block] Incentive Distribution Percentage By Specified Target Level [Table Text Block] Incentive Distribution Percentage By Specified Target Level [Table Text Block] Incentive Distribution Percentage By Specified Target Level. Schedule of Variable Interest Entities [Table] Schedule of Variable Interest Entities [Table] Variable Interest Entities by Classification of Entity [Axis] Variable Interest Entities [Axis] Variable Interest Entity, Classification [Domain] Variable Interest Entity, Classification [Domain] Variable Interest Entity, Primary Beneficiary [Member] Variable Interest Entity, Primary Beneficiary [Member] Cardinal Gas Services LLC [Member] Cardinal Gas Services LLC [Member] Cardinal Gas Services LLC [Member] Jackalope Gas Gathering Services LLC [Member] Jackalope Gas Gathering Services LLC [Member] Jackalope Gas Gathering Services LLC [Member] Cash and cash equivalents [Member] Cash and Cash Equivalents [Member] Accounts receivable [Member] Accounts Receivable [Member] Other current assets [Member] Other Current Assets [Member] Intangible assets, net [Member] Other Intangible Assets [Member] Other noncurrent assets [Member] Other Noncurrent Assets [Member] Accounts payable [Member] Accounts Payable [Member] Accrued liabilities [Member] Accrued Liabilities [Member] Current deferred revenue [Member] Other Current Liabilities [Member] Noncurrent deferred income taxes [Member] Deferred Income Tax Charge [Member] Asset retirement obligation [Member] Asset Retirement Obligation Costs [Member] Noncurrent deferred revenue associated with customer advance payments [Member] Other Noncurrent Liabilities [Member] Other Commitments [Axis] Other Commitments [Axis] Other Commitments [Domain] Other Commitments [Domain] Estimated Remaining Construction Costs For Variable Interest Entity [Member] Estimated Remaining Construction Costs For Variable Interest Entity [Member] Estimated Remaining Construction Costs For Variable Interest Entity [Member] Variable Interest Entity [Line Items] Variable Interest Entity [Line Items] Estimated remaining construction costs Other Commitment Variable Interest Entity, Consolidated, Carrying Amount, Assets and Liabilities, Net [Abstract] Variable Interest Entity, Consolidated, Carrying Amount, Assets and Liabilities, Net [Abstract] Variable Interest Entity, Consolidated, Carrying Amount, Assets Variable Interest Entity, Consolidated, Carrying Amount, Assets Variable Interest Entity, Consolidated, Carrying Amount, Liabilities Variable Interest Entity, Consolidated, Carrying Amount, Liabilities Accounting Policies [Abstract] Accounting Policies [Abstract] Principles of consolidation [Policy Text Block] Consolidation, Policy [Policy Text Block] Common control transactions [Policy Text Block] Combination of Entities under Common Control, Policy [Policy Text Block] Equity Method Investment Basis Difference Policy [Policy Textblock] Equity Method Investment Basis Difference Policy [Policy Textblock] The policy for recognizing differences between the cost of an equity method investment and the underlying equity in the net assets of the investee. Use of estimates [Policy Text Block] Use of Estimates, Policy [Policy Text Block] Regulatory Accounting [Policy Text Block] Public Utilities, Policy [Policy Text Block] Cash and cash equivalents [Policy Text Block] Cash and Cash Equivalents, Policy [Policy Text Block] Accounts receivable [Policy Text Block] Receivables, Policy [Policy Text Block] Inventory valuation [Policy Text Block] Inventory, Policy [Policy Text Block] Property, plant, and equipment [Policy Text Block] Property, Plant and Equipment, Policy [Policy Text Block] Goodwill [Policy Text Block] Goodwill and Intangible Assets, Goodwill, Policy [Policy Text Block] Other intangible assets [Policy Text Block] Goodwill and Intangible Assets, Intangible Assets, Policy [Policy Text Block] Impairment of property, plant, and equipment, other identifiable intangible assets and investments [Policy Text Block] Impairment or Disposal of Long-Lived Assets, Policy [Policy Text Block] Contingent liabilities [Policy Text Block] Commitments and Contingencies, Policy [Policy Text Block] Cash flows from revolving credit facilities and commercial paper program [Policy Text Block] Debt, Policy [Policy Text Block] Derivative instruments and hedging activities [Policy Text Block] Derivatives, Policy [Policy Text Block] Revenues [Policy Text Block] Revenue Recognition, Policy [Policy Text Block] Interest capitalized [Policy Text Block] Interest Capitalization, Policy [Policy Text Block] Employee common unit based awards [Policy Text Block] Compensation Related Costs, Policy [Policy Text Block] Pension and other postretirement benefits [Policy Text Block] Pension and Other Postretirement Plans, Policy [Policy Text Block] Income taxes [Policy Text Block] Income Tax, Policy [Policy Text Block] Earnings (loss) per common unit [Policy Text Block] Earnings Per Unit Policy [Text Block] Disclosure of accounting policy for computing basic and diluted earnings per unit. Foreign Currency Translation [Policy Text Block] Foreign Currency Transactions and Translations Policy [Policy Text Block] Equity-Based Compensation [Text Block] Disclosure of Compensation Related Costs, Share-based Payments [Text Block] Long-term Debt, by Maturity [Abstract] Long-term Debt, Fiscal Year Maturity [Abstract] 2016 Long-term Debt, Maturities, Repayments of Principal in Next Twelve Months 2017 Long-term Debt, Maturities, Repayments of Principal in Year Two 2018 Long-term Debt, Maturities, Repayments of Principal in Year Three 2019 Long-term Debt, Maturities, Repayments of Principal in Year Four 2020 Long-term Debt, Maturities, Repayments of Principal in Year Five Risks and Uncertainties [Abstract] Risks and Uncertainties [Abstract] Concentration Risk [Table] Concentration Risk [Table] Customer [Axis] Customer [Axis] Customer [Domain] Customer [Domain] Chesapeake Energy Corporation [Member] Chesapeake Energy Corporation [Member] Customer One [Member] Products and Services [Axis] Products and Services [Domain] NGLs, natural gas, and related products and services [Member] Sale of ngl And related products and svcs [member] -- None. No documentation exists for this element. -- Transportation of natural gas and related products [Member] Transportation of natural gas and related products [member] -- None. No documentation exists for this element. -- Other Receivable [Member] Other Receivable [Member] Other receivables. Minimum Volume Commitment [Member] Minimum Volume Commitment [Member] Minimum Volume Commitment [Member] Concentration Risk Type [Axis] Concentration Risk Type [Axis] Concentration Risk Type [Domain] Concentration Risk Type [Domain] Customer Concentration Risk [Member] Customer Concentration Risk [Member] Concentration Risk Benchmark [Axis] Concentration Risk Benchmark [Axis] Concentration Risk Benchmark [Domain] Concentration Risk Benchmark [Domain] Sales Revenue, Net [Member] Sales Revenue, Net [Member] Williams Partners [Member] Williams Partners [Member] Williams Partners L.P. Concentration Risk [Line Items] Concentration Risk [Line Items] Accounts and Notes Receivable Accounts, Notes, Loans and Financing Receivable, Net, Current [Abstract] Accounts and notes receivable, net Revenues Consolidated revenue, major customer, percentage Concentration Risk, Percentage Fair Value by Measurement Frequency [Axis] Measurement Frequency [Axis] Fair Value, Measurement Frequency [Domain] Fair Value, Measurement Frequency [Domain] Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member] Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member] Fair Value, Hierarchy [Axis] Fair Value, Hierarchy [Axis] Fair Value, Measurements, Fair Value Hierarchy [Domain] Fair Value Hierarchy [Domain] Level 1 [Member] Fair Value, Inputs, Level 1 [Member] Level 2 [Member] Fair Value, Inputs, Level 2 [Member] Level 3 [Member] Fair Value, Inputs, Level 3 [Member] Fair Value, by Balance Sheet Grouping, Disclosure Item Amounts [Axis] Measurement Basis [Axis] Fair Value, Disclosure Item Amounts [Domain] Fair Value Measurement [Domain] Portion at Fair Value Measurement [Member] Portion at Fair Value Measurement [Member] Carrying Amount [Member] Reported Value Measurement [Member] Fair Value [Member] Estimate of Fair Value Measurement [Member] Hedging Designation [Axis] Hedging Designation [Axis] Hedging Designation [Domain] Hedging Designation [Domain] Not Designated as Hedging Instrument [Member] Not Designated as Hedging Instrument [Member] Measured on a recurring basis: Fair Value, Assets, Liabilities and Stockholders' Equity Measured on Recurring Basis [Abstract] ARO Trust investments Asset Retirement Obligation, Legally Restricted Assets, Fair Value Energy derivative assets Derivative Asset, Fair Value, Gross Asset Energy derivative liabilities Derivative Liability, Fair Value, Gross Liability Unamortized debt issuance expense Additional disclosures: Additional Fair Value Elements [Abstract] Notes receivable and other Receivables, Fair Value Disclosure Long-term debt, including current portion Long-term Debt, Fair Value Fair Value, Assets, Level 1 to Level 2 Transfers, Amount Fair Value, Assets, Level 1 to Level 2 Transfers, Amount Fair Value, Assets, Level 2 to Level 1 Transfers, Amount Fair Value, Assets, Level 2 to Level 1 Transfers, Amount Allocation of Net Income and Distributions Partners' Capital Notes Disclosure [Text Block] Statement of Cash Flows [Abstract] OPERATING ACTIVITIES: Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Operating Activities [Abstract] Adjustments to reconcile 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 Provision (benefit) for deferred income taxes Impairment of and net (gain) loss on sale of Property, plant, and equipment Impairment Of And Net Gain Loss On Sale Of Property Plant And Equipment Impairment Of And Net Gain Loss On Sale Of Property Plant And Equipment Amortization of stock-based awards Share-based Compensation Cash provided (used) by changes in current assets and liabilities: Increase (Decrease) in Operating Capital [Abstract] Accounts and notes receivable Increase (Decrease) in Accounts and Notes Receivable Inventories Increase (Decrease) in Inventories Other current assets and deferred charges Increase (Decrease) in Other Current Assets Accounts payable Increase (Decrease) in Accounts Payable Accrued liabilities Increase (Decrease) in Accrued Liabilities Affiliate accounts receivable and payable – net Increase (Decrease) in Due to Related Parties, Current Other, including changes in noncurrent assets and liabilities Other Operating Activities, Cash Flow Statement Net cash provided by operating activities Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Operating Activities FINANCING ACTIVITIES: Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Financing Activities [Abstract] Proceeds from (payments of) commercial paper – net Proceeds from (Repayments of) Commercial Paper Proceeds from long-term debt Proceeds from Issuance of Long-term Debt Payments of long-term debt Proceeds from sales of common units Contributions from general partner Proceeds from Partnership Contribution Distributions to limited partners and general partner Payments of Distributions to Affiliates Distributions to noncontrolling interests Payments of Ordinary Dividends, Noncontrolling Interest Contributions from noncontrolling interests Proceeds from Noncontrolling Interests Contributions from The Williams Companies, Inc. – net Proceeds from Contributions from Affiliates Payments for debt issuance costs Payments of Debt Issuance Costs Special distribution from Gulfstream Contribution to Gulfstream for repayment of debt Other – net Proceeds from (Payments for) Other Financing Activities Net cash provided by financing activities Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Financing Activities INVESTING ACTIVITIES: Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Investing Activities [Abstract] Capital expenditures (1) Payments to Acquire Property, Plant, and Equipment Net proceeds from dispositions Proceeds from Sale of Productive Assets Purchase of business Payments to Acquire Businesses, Net of Cash Acquired Purchase of business from affiliate Payments to Acquire Businesses and Interest in Affiliates Purchases of and contributions to equity-method investments Other – net Payments for (Proceeds from) Other Investing Activities Net cash used by investing activities Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Investing Activities Increase (decrease) in cash and cash equivalents Cash and Cash Equivalents, Period Increase (Decrease) Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of year Cash and cash equivalents at end of year (1) Increases to property, plant, and equipment Property, Plant and Equipment, Additions Changes in related accounts payable and accrued liabilities Capital Expenditures Incurred but Not yet Paid Document and Entity Information [Abstract] -- None. No documentation exists for this element. -- Entities [Table] Entities [Table] 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] Entity Information [Line Items] Entity Information [Line Items] 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 Document Fiscal Year Focus Document Fiscal Year Focus Document Fiscal Period Focus Document Fiscal Period Focus 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 Partnership Units Outstanding Entity Common Stock, Shares Outstanding Fair Value Measurements Guarantees and Concentration of Credit Risk [Text Block] Fair Value Disclosures [Text Block] Unit Transactions Disclosure [Text Block] Unit Transactions Disclosure [Text Block] Entire disclosure to describe transactions affecting Partners Capital; Excludes Allocation of Net Income. Related Party Transactions [Abstract] Schedule of Related Party Transactions [Table Text Block] Schedule of Related Party Transactions [Table Text Block] 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] Williams Companies Incentive Plan [Member] Williams Companies Incentive Plan [Member] Williams Companies Incentive Plan [Member] Williams Partners Long Term Incentive Plan [Member] Williams Partners Long Term Incentive Plan [Member] Williams Partners Long Term Incentive Plan [Member] Award Type [Axis] Award Type [Axis] Equity Award [Domain] Equity Award [Domain] Restricted Stock Units (RSUs) [Member] Restricted Stock Units (RSUs) [Member] Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items] Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items] Allocated Share-based Compensation Expense Allocated Share-based Compensation Expense Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Award Vesting Period Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Award Vesting Period Grants, Units Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Grants in Period Employee Service Share-based Compensation, Nonvested Awards, Compensation Not yet Recognized, Share-based Awards Other than Options Employee Service Share-based Compensation, Nonvested Awards, Compensation Not yet Recognized, Share-based Awards Other than Options Estimated forfeitures under employee stock-based awards Estimated forfeitures under employee stock-based awards Estimated forfeitures under employee stock-based awards. Employee Service Share-based Compensation, Nonvested Awards, Compensation Cost Not yet Recognized, Period for Recognition Employee Service Share-based Compensation, Nonvested Awards, Compensation Cost Not yet Recognized, Period for Recognition Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Nonvested, Number of Shares [Roll Forward] Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Nonvested, Number of Shares [Roll Forward] Nonvested at beginning of period, Units Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Nonvested, Number Adjustment for unit split in ACMP Merger, Units Share Based Compensation Arrangement By Share Based Payment Award Equity Instruments Other Than Options Additional Awards For Split Share Based Compensation Arrangement By Share Based Payment Award Equity Instruments Other Than Options Additional Awards For Split Forfeited, Units Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Forfeited in Period Vested, Units Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Vested in Period Nonvested at end of period,Units Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Nonvested, Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value [Abstract] Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Nonvested, Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value [Abstract] Nonvested at beginning of period, Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Nonvested, Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value Adjustment for unit split in ACMP Merger, Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value Share Based Compensation Arrangement By Share Based Payment Award Equity Instruments Other Than Options Additional Awards For Split Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value Share Based Compensation Arrangement By Share Based Payment Award Equity Instruments Other Than Options Additional Awards For Split Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value Forfeited, Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Forfeitures, Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value Vested, Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Vested in Period, Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value Nonvested at end of period, Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value Unusual or Infrequent Item [Table] Unusual or Infrequent Item [Table] Unusual or Infrequent Item [Axis] Unusual or Infrequent Item [Axis] Unusual or Infrequent Item [Domain] Unusual or Infrequent Item [Domain] Charges Related To Leak At Underground Natural Gas Storage Facility [Member] Charges Related To Leak At Underground Natural Gas Storage Facility [Member] -- None. No documentation exists for this element. -- Asset Retirement Obligation Costs [Member] Unusual or Infrequent Item [Line Items] Unusual or Infrequent Item [Line Items] Asset Retirement Obligation Asset Retirement Obligation [Abstract] Asset Retirement Obligations, Noncurrent Asset Retirement Obligation, Roll Forward Analysis [Roll Forward] Asset Retirement Obligation, Roll Forward Analysis [Roll Forward] Beginning balance Asset Retirement Obligation Liabilities incurred Asset Retirement Obligation, Liabilities Incurred Liabilities settled Asset Retirement Obligation, Liabilities Settled Accretion expense Asset Retirement Obligation, Accretion Expense Revisions Asset Retirement Obligation, Revision of Estimate Ending balance Transco's annual funding commitment for ARO Other Commitment, Due in Next Twelve Months Schedule of Goodwill [Table Text Block] Schedule of Goodwill [Table Text Block] Schedule of Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Table Text Block] Schedule of Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Table Text Block] Schedule of Business Acquisitions, by Acquisition [Table Text Block] Schedule of Business Acquisitions, by Acquisition [Table Text Block] Business Acquisition, Pro Forma Information [Table Text Block] Business Acquisition, Pro Forma Information [Table Text Block] Schedule of Other Operating Cost and Expense, by Component [Table Text Block] Schedule of Other Operating Cost and Expense, by Component [Table Text Block] Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments Due, Fiscal Year Maturity [Abstract] 2016 Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments Due, Next Twelve Months 2017 Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments, Due in Two Years 2018 Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments, Due in Three Years 2019 Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments, Due in Four Years 2020 Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments, Due in Five Years Thereafter Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments, Due Thereafter Total Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments Due Operating leases [Abstract] Leases, Operating [Abstract] Total rent expense Operating Leases, Rent Expense Inventories [Table Text Block] Schedule of Inventory, Current [Table Text Block] Statement of Stockholders' Equity [Abstract] Limited Partners Limited Partner [Member] General Partner Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) AOCI Attributable to Parent [Member] Noncontrolling Interests Noncontrolling Interest [Member] Parent [Member] Parent [Member] Common Units Common Stock [Member] Common Class B [Member] Common Class B [Member] Beginning Balance Other comprehensive income (loss) Cash distributions Partners' Capital Account, Distributions Contributions from The Williams Companies, Inc - net (Note 1) Distributions Related To Assets Contributed To Partnership Distributions Related To Assets Contributed To Partnership. Sales of common units (Note 14) Partners' Capital Account, Sale of Units Issuance of Class D units in common control transaction (Note 1) Issuance of Class D units in common control transactions Issuance of Class D units in common control transactions. Beneficial conversion feature of Class D units beneficial conversion feature equity Beneficial conversion feature of Class D units Amortization of beneficial conversion feature of Class D units (Note 4) Contributions from general partner Partners' Capital Account, Contributions Conversion of Class D units to common units (Note 4) ConversionOfClassDUnitsToCommonUnits Conversion of Class D Units to Common Units Contributions from noncontrolling interests Proceeds from (Payments to) Noncontrolling Interests Distributions to noncontrolling interests Noncontrolling Interest, Decrease from Distributions to Noncontrolling Interest Holders Other Stockholders' Equity, Other Net increase (decrease) in equity Stockholders' Equity, Period Increase (Decrease) Ending Balance Transcontinental Gas Pipe Line Company, LLC [Member] Williams Partners L.P. [Member] 6.4% Senior Unsecured Notes due 2016 [Member] 6.4% Senior Unsecured Notes due 2016 [Member] 6.4% Senior Unsecured Notes due 2016 [Member] 6.05% Senior Unsecured Notes due 2018 [Member] 6.05% Senior Unsecured Notes due 2018 [Member] 6.05% Senior Unsecured Notes due 2018 [Member] 7.08% Debentures due 2026 [Member] 7.08% Debentures due 2026 [Member] 7.08% Debentures due 2026 [Member] 7.25% Debentures due 2026 [Member] 7.25% Debentures due 2026 [Member] 7.25% Debentures due 2026 [Member] 5.4% Senior Unsecured Notes due 2041 [Member] 5.4% Senior Unsecured Notes due 2041 [Member] 5.4% Senior Unsecured Notes due 2041 [Member] 4.45% Senior Unsecured Notes due 2042 [Member] 4.45% Senior Unsecured Notes due 2042 [Member] 4.45% Senior Unsecured Notes due 2042 [Member] 7% Senior Unsecured Notes due 2016 [Member] 7% Senior Unsecured Notes due 2016 [Member] 7% Senior Unsecured Notes due 2016 [Member] 5.95% Senior Unsecured Notes due 2017 [Member] 5.95% Senior Unsecured Notes due 2017 [Member] 5.95% Senior Unsecured Notes due 2017 [Member] 7.125% Debentures due 2025 [Member] 7.125% Debentures due 2025 [Member] 7.125% Debentures due 2025 [Member] 7.25% Senior Unsecured Notes due 2017 [Member] 7.25% Senior Unsecured Notes due 2017 [Member] 7.25% Senior Unsecured Notes due 2017 [Member] 5.25% Senior Unsecured Notes due 2020 [Member] 5.25% Senior Unsecured Notes due 2020 [Member] 5.25% Senior Unsecured Notes due 2020 [Member] 4.125% Senior Unsecured Notes due 2020 [Member] 4.125% Senior Unsecured Notes due 2020 [Member] 4.125% Senior Unsecured Notes due 2020 [Member] 4% Senior Unsecured Notes due 2021 [Member] 4% Senior Unsecured Notes due 2021 [Member] 4% Senior Unsecured Notes due 2021 [Member] 3.35% Senior Unsecured Notes due 2022 [Member] 3.35% Senior Unsecured Notes due 2022 [Member] 3.35% Senior Unsecured Notes due 2022 [Member] 6.125% Senior Unsecured Notes due 2022 [Member] 6.125% Senior Unsecured Notes due 2022 [Member] 6.125% Senior Unsecured Notes due 2022 [Member] 4.875% Senior Unsecured Notes due 2023 [Member] 4.875% Senior Unsecured Notes due 2023 [Member] 4.875% Senior Unsecured Notes due 2023 [Member] 4.875% Senior Unsecured Notes due 2024 [Member] 4.875% Senior Unsecured Notes due 2024 [Member] 4.875% Senior Unsecured Notes due 2024 [Member] 6.3% Senior Unsecured Notes due 2040 [Member] 6.3% Senior Unsecured Notes due 2040 [Member] 6.3% Senior Unsecured Notes due 2040 [Member] Credit facility loans Capital Lease Obligations Capital Lease Obligations Debt issuance costs Net unamortized debt premium (discount) Debt Instrument, Unamortized Discount (Premium), Net Long-term debt, including current portion Debt and Capital Lease Obligations Long-term Debt and Capital Lease Obligations, Current Long-term debt Schedule of Revenue from External Customers and Long-Lived Assets, by Geographical Areas [Table Text Block] Schedule of Revenue from External Customers and Long-Lived Assets, by Geographical Areas [Table Text Block] Reconciliation of segment revenues [Table Text Block] Schedule of Segment Reporting Information, by Segment [Table Text Block] Reconciliation of Modified EBITDA from Segments to Consolidated [Table Text Block] Reconciliation of Operating Profit (Loss) from Segments to Consolidated [Table Text Block] Total assets and investments by reporting segment [Table Text Block] Reconciliation of Assets from Segment to Consolidated [Table Text Block] Segment Disclosures [Text Block] Segment Reporting Disclosure [Text Block] Fair Value, Measurements, Nonrecurring [Member] Fair Value, Measurements, Nonrecurring [Member] Other Investments [Member] Other Investments [Member] West G & P [Member] West G And P [Member] West G And P [Member] Fair Value Assets Measured On Nonrecurring Basis [Abstract] Fair Value Assets Measured On Nonrecurring Basis [Abstract] Fair Value Assets Measured On Nonrecurring Basis [Abstract] Property, Plant, and Equipment, Fair Value Disclosure Property, Plant, and Equipment, Fair Value Disclosure Assets Held-for-sale, Long Lived, Fair Value Disclosure Assets Held-for-sale, Long Lived, Fair Value Disclosure Impairment of Long-Lived Assets to be Disposed of Impairment of Long-Lived Assets to be Disposed of Investments, Fair Value Disclosure Investments, Fair Value Disclosure Fair Value Inputs, Discount Rate Fair Value Inputs, Discount Rate Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, Amount [Abstract] Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, Amount [Abstract] Provision (benefit) at statutory rate Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation at Federal Statutory Income Tax Rate, Amount Increases (decreases) in taxes resulting from: Increases Decreases In Taxes Resulting From [Abstract] Increases (decreases) in taxes resulting from. Income not subject to U.S. federal tax Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, Tax Exempt Income, Amount State income taxes Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, State and Local Income Taxes, Amount Foreign operations — net Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, Foreign Income Tax Rate Differential, Amount Related Party Transactions Disclosure [Text Block] Related Party Transactions Disclosure [Text Block] Variable Interest Entities [Text Block] Variable Interest Entity Disclosure [Text Block] General, Description of Business, Basis of Presentation, and Summary of Significant Accounting Policies [Text Block] Organization, Consolidation and Presentation of Financial Statements Disclosure [Text Block] Related Party [Axis] Related Party [Axis] Related Party [Domain] Related Party [Domain] Related Party Transaction [Axis] Related Party Transaction [Axis] Related Party Transaction [Domain] Related Party Transaction [Domain] Employee direct costs [Member] Employee direct costs [Member] Employee direct costs. Employee allocated costs [Member] Employee allocated costs [Member] Employee allocated costs. Equity method investees [Member] Equity Method Investee [Member] Common management [Member] Common management [Member] Common management [Member] Reimbursable maintenance costs for certain government projects [Member] Reimbursable maintenance costs for certain government projects [Member] Reimbursable maintenance costs for certain government projects [Member] Summary of Related Party Transactions Abstract [Line Items] Related Party Transaction [Line Items] Revenue Revenue from Related Parties Product costs Related Party Transaction, Purchases from Related Party Operating and maintenance expenses Related Party Transaction, Expenses from Transactions with Related Party Selling, general, and administrative expenses Related Party Transaction, Selling, General and Administrative Expenses from Transactions with Related Party Capitalized Charges From Affiliate Capitalized Charges From Affiliate Capitalized Charges From Affiliate includes construction services charges invoiced from Affiliate in addition to capitalized employee costs allocated to WPZ by Williams Accounts payable - affiliate Service costs Service Management Costs Maximum potential obligation Guarantor Obligations, Maximum Exposure, Undiscounted Proceeds Proceeds from Grantors Contribution receivable Due from Related Parties, Current Goodwill and Intangible Assets Disclosure [Text Block] Goodwill and Intangible Assets Disclosure [Text Block]