Transactions with Boeing (Detail) (USD $) In Millions, unless otherwise specified	Sep. 30, 2012	Dec. 31, 2011
Types Of Aircraft [Line Items]
Guarantee Amount	$ 1,519	$ 1,577
Carrying Value	1,859	1,928
717 (Out of production) [Member]
Types Of Aircraft [Line Items]
Guarantee Amount	1,435	1,481
Carrying Value	1,731	1,790
Out of production single-aisle aircraft [Member]
Types Of Aircraft [Line Items]
Guarantee Amount	46	55
Carrying Value	46	55
Other, including other Boeing aircraft [Member]
Types Of Aircraft [Line Items]
Guarantee Amount	38	41
Carrying Value	$ 82	$ 83