Commitments, Contingencies And Guarantees (Tables)

12 Months Ended

Dec. 31, 2012

Commitments and Contingencies Disclosure [Abstract]

Debt Instrument, Covenant Description

These covenants permit the holders of such obligations to receive a higher rate of return (between 100 and 600 basis points above the stated rate) if a designated event, as defined, should occur and the credit ratings of such obligations are downgraded below certain levels within a certain period of time.

Schedule Of Aircraft Acquisition Commitments [Table Text Block]

American had total aircraft acquisition commitments as of December 31, 2012 as follows:

		Boeing			Airbus
		737 Family	777-200ER	777-300ER	A320 Family	A320 NEO	Total
2013	Purchase	31	—	8	—	—	39
	Lease	—	—	—	20	—	20
2014	Purchase	5	1	5	—	—	11
	Lease	15	—	—	35	—	50
2015	Purchase		2	—	—	—	2
	Lease	20	—	—	30	—	50
2016	Purchase	—	2	—	—	—	2
	Lease	20	—	—	25	—	45
2017	Purchase	—	—	—	—	10	10
	Lease	20	—	—	20	—	40
2018 and beyond	Purchase	—	—	—	—	120	120
	Lease	—	—	—	—	—	—
Total	Purchase	36	5	13	—	130	184
	Lease	75	—	—	130	—	205