CONSOLIDATED INCOME STATEMENTS (Parenthetical) (USD $) In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2012	Dec. 31, 2011	Dec. 31, 2010
CONSOLIDATED INCOME STATEMENTS
Gain on bargain purchase, deferred taxes			$ 18,016
Net loss (income) attributable to non-controlling interests, tax	$ 2,500	$ 2,400	$ 1,900

The deferred tax effect of gains from a business combination in which the amount of net identifiable assets acquired and liabilities assumed exceeds the aggregate consideration transferred or to be transferred.

No definition available.

Name:	atni_GainOnBargainPurchaseDeferredTax
Namespace Prefix:	atni_
Data Type:	xbrli:monetaryItemType
Balance Type:	debit
Period Type:	duration