MILEAGE PLAN MILEAGE PLAN (DETAILS) (USD $) In Millions, unless otherwise specified	3 Months Ended		9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2013	Sep. 30, 2012	Sep. 30, 2013	Sep. 30, 2012	Dec. 31, 2012
Mileage Plan [Line Items]
Other accrued liabilities	$ 676		$ 676		$ 557
Deferred revenue	295		295		443
Other liabilities	318		318		334
Total passenger revenue	1,168	1,103	3,233	3,050
Other - net	165	139	433	390
Special Revenue	192	0	192	0
Liabilities From Mileage Plan [Member]
Mileage Plan [Line Items]
Other accrued liabilities	342		342		285
Deferred revenue	283		283		428
Other liabilities	17		17		17
Liabilities	642		642		730
Revenue From Mileage Plan [Member]
Mileage Plan [Line Items]
Total passenger revenue	54	47	150	137
Other - net	74	55	184	158
Special Revenue	192	0	192	0
Total Mileage Plan Revenues	$ 320	$ 102	$ 526	$ 295