Revenue Recognition - Changes in Loyalty Program Liability (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 31, 2019	Dec. 31, 2018
Movement In Contract With Customer, Liability [Roll Forward]
Beginning balance	$ 12,878
Ending balance	$ 14,498
Inactive period before expiration of mileage credits	18 months
Loyalty program liability [Member]
Movement In Contract With Customer, Liability [Roll Forward]
Beginning balance	$ 8,539
Deferral of revenue	963
Recognition of revenue	(934)
Ending balance	8,568
Deferred revenue, current	3,354	$ 3,267
American Airlines, Inc. [Member]
Movement In Contract With Customer, Liability [Roll Forward]
Beginning balance	12,878
Ending balance	$ 14,498
Inactive period before expiration of mileage credits	18 months
American Airlines, Inc. [Member] | Loyalty program liability [Member]
Movement In Contract With Customer, Liability [Roll Forward]
Beginning balance	$ 8,539
Deferral of revenue	963
Recognition of revenue	(934)
Ending balance	8,568
Deferred revenue, current	$ 3,354	$ 3,267