XML 64 R40.htm IDEA: XBRL DOCUMENT
v3.20.4

Significant Accounting Policies - Narrative (Details) $ in Millions |  |  | 3 Months Ended | 12 Months Ended |
--- | --- | --- | --- | --- | ---
Apr. 01, 2020 | Mar. 31, 2020 | Dec. 31, 2020 USD ($) plane | Sep. 30, 2020 USD ($) | Jun. 30, 2020 USD ($) | Mar. 31, 2020 USD ($) | Dec. 31, 2019 USD ($) | Sep. 30, 2019 USD ($) | Jun. 30, 2019 USD ($) | Mar. 31, 2019 USD ($) | Dec. 31, 2020 USD ($) plane segment | Dec. 31, 2019 USD ($) | Dec. 31, 2018 USD ($) | Dec. 31, 2017 USD ($) | Jan. 01, 2020 USD ($)
Summary Of Significant Accounting Policies [Line Items] |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |
Expiration period for refundable tickets |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  | 1 year |  |  |  |  |
Extended expiration period for refundable tickets |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  | 24 months |  |  |  |  |
Percent of ETCs and FFCs with expiration dates extending beyond 12 months |  |  | 74.00% |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  | 74.00% |  |  |  |  |
Number of operating segments | segment |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  | 1 |  |  |  |  |
Revenue |  |  | $ 3,412 | $ 2,489 | $ 1,475 | $ 7,979 | $ 10,888 |  | $ 11,380 | $ 11,402 | $ 9,589 | $ 15,355 | $ 43,259 |  | $ 41,303 |  |
Excise taxes refunded to customers but still outstanding from the U.S. government |  |  | 150 |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  | $ 150 |  |  |  |  |
Period over which miles are expected to be redeemed |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  | two years |  |  |  |  |
Cash collateral for a standby letter of credit |  |  | 217 |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  | $ 217 |  |  |  |  |
Amounts to be used for the payment of fees, principal and interest |  |  | 6,800 |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  | 6,800 |  |  |  |  |
Carrying value of computer software |  |  | 548 |  |  |  | 422 |  |  |  |  | 548 | 422 |  |  |  |
Amortization expense |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  | 55 | 60 |  | 67 |  |
Projected amortization expense in 2021 |  |  | 50 |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  | 50 |  |  |  |  |
Projected amortization expense in 2022 |  |  | 40 |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  | 40 |  |  |  |  |
Projected amortization expense in 2023 |  |  | 37 |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  | 37 |  |  |  |  |
Projected amortization expense in 2024 |  |  | 32 |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  | 32 |  |  |  |  |
Projected amortization expense in 2025 |  |  | 28 |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  | 28 |  |  |  |  |
Advertising expense |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  | $ 87 | $ 212 |  | 211 |  |
Accounting Standards Update [Extensible List] |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  | us-gaap:AccountingStandardsUpdate201613Member | us-gaap:AccountingStandardsUpdate201613Member | [1] |  | us-gaap:AccountingStandardsUpdate201601Member |
Stockholders' equity |  |  | $ 5,960 |  |  |  | 11,531 |  |  |  |  | $ 5,960 | $ 11,531 |  | 10,042 | $ 8,788 |
Boeing 757-200 |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |
Summary Of Significant Accounting Policies [Line Items] |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |
Number of planes permanently grounded | plane |  |  | 11 |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  | 11 |  |  |  |  |
Tangible asset impairment charges |  |  | $ 94 |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |
Retained Earnings |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |
Summary Of Significant Accounting Policies [Line Items] |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |
Stockholders' equity |  |  | 2,626 |  |  |  | 9,716 |  |  |  |  | $ 2,626 | 9,716 |  | 6,715 | 4,603 |
Adoption of New Accounting Standard |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |
Summary Of Significant Accounting Policies [Line Items] |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |
Stockholders' equity |  |  |  |  |  |  | (17) | [1] |  |  |  |  | (17) | [1] |  | 0 |
Adoption of New Accounting Standard | Retained Earnings |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |
Summary Of Significant Accounting Policies [Line Items] |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |
Stockholders' equity |  |  |  |  |  |  | $ (17) | [1] |  |  |  |  | (17) | [1] |  | $ (6) | $ (17)
Minimum |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |
Summary Of Significant Accounting Policies [Line Items] |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |
Frequent flier program expiration period |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  | 1 year |  |  |  |  |
Maximum |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |
Summary Of Significant Accounting Policies [Line Items] |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |
Frequent flier program expiration period |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  | 9 years |  |  |  |  |
Computer software |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |
Summary Of Significant Accounting Policies [Line Items] |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |
Depreciation expense |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  | $ 172 | 135 |  | 122 |  |
Advance Ticket Sales |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |
Summary Of Significant Accounting Policies [Line Items] |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |
Expiration period for advance ticket sales | 24 months | 12 months |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |
Contract liabilities |  |  | $ 3,100 |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  | 3,100 |  |  |  |  |
Revenue recognized |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  | 3,000 | 3,400 |  | 3,100 |  |
Ancillary Fees Recorded within Passenger Revenues |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |
Summary Of Significant Accounting Policies [Line Items] |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |
Revenue |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  | 918 | 2,400 |  | 2,200 |  |
Other Operating Revenue |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |
Summary Of Significant Accounting Policies [Line Items] |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |
Revenue |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  | 1,902 | 2,455 |  | 2,360 |  |
Other Operating Revenue | Chase and Other Partner Agreements |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |
Summary Of Significant Accounting Policies [Line Items] |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |
Revenue |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  | $ 1,700 | $ 2,000 |  | 2,000 |  |
One-time payment |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  | $ 50 |  |
[1] | Transition adjustment due to the adoption of Accounting Standards Update No. 2016-13, Financial Instruments—Credit Losses.

X
- Definition Electronic Travel Certificates And Future Flight Credits, Percent Of Credits With Expiration Dates Beyond 12 Months + References No definition available. + Details
Name: | ual_ElectronicTravelCertificatesAndFutureFlightCreditsPercentOfCreditsWithExpirationDatesBeyond12Months
Namespace Prefix: | ual_
Data Type: | num:percentItemType
Balance Type: | na
Period Type: | instant

X
- Definition Electronic Travel Certificates, Expiration Period + References No definition available. + Details
Name: | ual_ElectronicTravelCertificatesExpirationPeriod
Namespace Prefix: | ual_
Data Type: | xbrli:durationItemType
Balance Type: | na
Period Type: | duration

X
- Definition Excise Tax Refunds Receivable + References No definition available. + Details
Name: | ual_ExciseTaxRefundsReceivable
Namespace Prefix: | ual_
Data Type: | xbrli:monetaryItemType
Balance Type: | debit
Period Type: | instant

X
- Definition Frequent flyer mileage program expiration period. + References No definition available. + Details
Name: | ual_FrequentFlyerMileageProgramExpirationPeriod
Namespace Prefix: | ual_
Data Type: | xbrli:durationItemType
Balance Type: | na
Period Type: | duration

X
- Definition Number Of Planes Permanently Grounded + References No definition available. + Details
Name: | ual_NumberOfPlanesPermanentlyGrounded
Namespace Prefix: | ual_
Data Type: | xbrli:integerItemType
Balance Type: | na
Period Type: | instant

X
- Definition Refundable Tickets, Expiration Period + References No definition available. + Details
Name: | ual_RefundableTicketsExpirationPeriod
Namespace Prefix: | ual_
Data Type: | xbrli:durationItemType
Balance Type: | na
Period Type: | duration

X
- Definition Refundable Tickets, Temporary Expiration Period + References No definition available. + Details
Name: | ual_RefundableTicketsTemporaryExpirationPeriod
Namespace Prefix: | ual_
Data Type: | xbrli:durationItemType
Balance Type: | na
Period Type: | duration

X
- Definition Restricted Cash, Amounts To Be Used For Borrowing Fees, Principal, And Interest + References No definition available. + Details
Name: | ual_RestrictedCashAmountsToBeUsedForBorrowingFeesPrincipalAndInterest
Namespace Prefix: | ual_
Data Type: | xbrli:monetaryItemType
Balance Type: | debit
Period Type: | instant

X
- Definition Revenue from Contract with Customer, One-Time Payment Recognized + References No definition available. + Details
Name: | ual_RevenuefromContractwithCustomerOneTimePaymentRecognized
Namespace Prefix: | ual_
Data Type: | xbrli:monetaryItemType
Balance Type: | credit
Period Type: | duration

X
- Definition Summary Of Significant Accounting Policies [Line Items] + References No definition available. + Details
Name: | ual_SummaryOfSignificantAccountingPoliciesLineItems
Namespace Prefix: | ual_
Data Type: | xbrli:stringItemType
Balance Type: | na
Period Type: | duration

X
- Definition Indicates amendment to accounting standards. + References Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/disclosureRef -Publisher FASB -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Topic 944 -SubTopic 40 -Section 65 -Paragraph 2 -Subparagraph (f)(2) -URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=121370832&loc=SL117420844-207641 Reference 2: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/disclosureRef -Publisher FASB -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Topic 944 -SubTopic 40 -Section 65 -Paragraph 2 -Subparagraph (g)(1) -URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=121370832&loc=SL117420844-207641 Reference 3: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/disclosureRef -Publisher FASB -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Topic 718 -SubTopic 10 -Section 65 -Paragraph 15 -Subparagraph (f)(2) -URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=121322162&loc=SL121327923-165333 Reference 4: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/disclosureRef -Publisher FASB -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Topic 326 -SubTopic 10 -Section 65 -Paragraph 4 -Subparagraph (c) -URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=121646688&loc=SL121648383-210437 Reference 5: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/disclosureRef -Publisher FASB -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Topic 718 -SubTopic 10 -Section 65 -Paragraph 15 -Subparagraph (f)(1) -URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=121322162&loc=SL121327923-165333 Reference 6: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/disclosureRef -Publisher FASB -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Topic 944 -SubTopic 40 -Section 65 -Paragraph 2 -Subparagraph (g)(2)(i) -URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=121370832&loc=SL117420844-207641 Reference 7: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/disclosureRef -Publisher FASB -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Topic 944 -SubTopic 40 -Section 65 -Paragraph 2 -Subparagraph (a) -URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=121370832&loc=SL117420844-207641 Reference 8: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/disclosureRef -Publisher FASB -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Topic 718 -SubTopic 10 -Section 65 -Paragraph 15 -Subparagraph (e) -URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=121322162&loc=SL121327923-165333 Reference 9: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/disclosureRef -Publisher FASB -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Topic 326 -SubTopic 10 -Section 65 -Paragraph 4 -Subparagraph (d) -URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=121646688&loc=SL121648383-210437 Reference 10: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/disclosureRef -Publisher FASB -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Topic 718 -SubTopic 10 -Section 65 -Paragraph 15 -Subparagraph (d) -URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=121322162&loc=SL121327923-165333 Reference 11: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/disclosureRef -Publisher FASB -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Topic 944 -SubTopic 40 -Section 65 -Paragraph 2 -Subparagraph (h)(2) -URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=121370832&loc=SL117420844-207641 Reference 12: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/disclosureRef -Publisher FASB -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Topic 944 -SubTopic 40 -Section 65 -Paragraph 2 -Subparagraph (b) -URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=121370832&loc=SL117420844-207641 Reference 13: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/disclosureRef -Publisher FASB -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Topic 326 -SubTopic 10 -Section 65 -Paragraph 4 -Subparagraph (e)(3) -URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=121646688&loc=SL121648383-210437 Reference 14: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/disclosureRef -Publisher FASB -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Topic 718 -SubTopic 10 -Section 65 -Paragraph 15 -Subparagraph (c) -URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=121322162&loc=SL121327923-165333 Reference 15: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/disclosureRef -Publisher FASB -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Topic 250 -SubTopic 10 -Section 50 -Paragraph 1 -Subparagraph (b)(2) -URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=109234566&loc=d3e22499-107794 Reference 16: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/disclosureRef -Publisher FASB -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Topic 944 -SubTopic 40 -Section 65 -Paragraph 2 -Subparagraph (e) -URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=121370832&loc=SL117420844-207641 Reference 17: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/disclosureRef -Publisher FASB -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Topic 250 -SubTopic 10 -Section 50 -Paragraph 1 -Subparagraph (b)(4) -URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=109234566&loc=d3e22499-107794 Reference 18: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/disclosureRef -Publisher FASB -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Topic 250 -SubTopic 10 -Section 50 -Paragraph 1 -Subparagraph (b)(3) -URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=109234566&loc=d3e22499-107794 Reference 19: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/disclosureRef -Publisher FASB -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Topic 944 -SubTopic 40 -Section 65 -Paragraph 2 -Subparagraph (g)(2)(iv) -URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=121370832&loc=SL117420844-207641 Reference 20: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/disclosureRef -Publisher FASB -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Topic 944 -SubTopic 40 -Section 65 -Paragraph 2 -Subparagraph (g)(2)(iii) -URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=121370832&loc=SL117420844-207641 Reference 21: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/disclosureRef -Publisher FASB -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Topic 944 -SubTopic 40 -Section 65 -Paragraph 2 -Subparagraph (h)(1) -URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=121370832&loc=SL117420844-207641 Reference 22: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/disclosureRef -Publisher FASB -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Topic 718 -SubTopic 10 -Section 65 -Paragraph 15 -Subparagraph (a) -URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=121322162&loc=SL121327923-165333 Reference 23: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/disclosureRef -Publisher FASB -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Topic 718 -SubTopic 10 -Section 65 -Paragraph 15 -Subparagraph (b) -URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=121322162&loc=SL121327923-165333 Reference 24: http://www.xbrl.org/2009/role/commonPracticeRef -Publisher FASB -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Topic 250 -SubTopic 10 -Section 50 -Paragraph 1 -Subparagraph (c)(2) -URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=109234566&loc=d3e22499-107794 Reference 25: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/disclosureRef -Publisher FASB -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Topic 326 -SubTopic 10 -Section 65 -Paragraph 4 -Subparagraph (e)(4) -URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=121646688&loc=SL121648383-210437 Reference 26: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/disclosureRef -Publisher FASB -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Topic 326 -SubTopic 10 -Section 65 -Paragraph 4 -Subparagraph (a) -URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=121646688&loc=SL121648383-210437 Reference 27: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/disclosureRef -Publisher FASB -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Topic 718 -SubTopic 10 -Section 65 -Paragraph 15 -Subparagraph (g)(2) -URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=121322162&loc=SL121327923-165333 Reference 28: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/disclosureRef -Publisher FASB -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Topic 944 -SubTopic 40 -Section 65 -Paragraph 2 -Subparagraph (f)(1) -URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=121370832&loc=SL117420844-207641 Reference 29: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/disclosureRef -Publisher FASB -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Topic 326 -SubTopic 10 -Section 65 -Paragraph 4 -Subparagraph (b) -URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=121646688&loc=SL121648383-210437 Reference 30: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/disclosureRef -Publisher FASB -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Topic 944 -SubTopic 40 -Section 65 -Paragraph 2 -Subparagraph (g)(2)(ii) -URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=121370832&loc=SL117420844-207641 Reference 31: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/disclosureRef -Publisher FASB -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Topic 740 -SubTopic 10 -Section 65 -Paragraph 8 -Subparagraph (d)(2) Reference 32: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/disclosureRef -Publisher FASB -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Topic 740 -SubTopic 10 -Section 65 -Paragraph 8 -Subparagraph (d)(3) + Details
Name: | us-gaap_AccountingStandardsUpdateExtensibleList
Namespace Prefix: | us-gaap_
Data Type: | srt-types:extensibleListItemType
Balance Type: | na
Period Type: | duration

X
- Definition Amount charged to advertising expense for the period, which are expenses incurred with the objective of increasing revenue for a specified brand, product or product line. + References Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/disclosureRef -Publisher FASB -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Topic 720 -SubTopic 35 -Section 50 -Paragraph 1 -Subparagraph (b) -URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=6420018&loc=d3e36677-107848 + Details
Name: | us-gaap_AdvertisingExpense
Namespace Prefix: | us-gaap_
Data Type: | xbrli:monetaryItemType
Balance Type: | debit
Period Type: | duration

X
- Definition The aggregate expense charged against earnings to allocate the cost of intangible assets (nonphysical assets not used in production) in a systematic and rational manner to the periods expected to benefit from such assets. As a noncash expense, this element is added back to net income when calculating cash provided by or used in operations using the indirect method. + References Reference 1: http://fasb.org/us-gaap/role/ref/legacyRef -Publisher FASB -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Topic 230 -SubTopic 10 -Section 45 -Paragraph 28 -Subparagraph (b) -URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=121586364&loc=d3e3602-108585 Reference 2: http://fasb.org/us-gaap/role/ref/legacyRef -Publisher FASB -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Topic 350 -SubTopic 30 -Section 50 -Paragraph 2 -Subparagraph (a)(2) -URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=66006027&loc=d3e16323-109275 Reference 3: http://fasb.org/us-gaap/role/ref/legacyRef -Publisher FASB -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Topic 350 -SubTopic 30 -Section 45 -Paragraph 2 -URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=6388964&loc=d3e16225-109274 + Details
Name: | us-gaap_AmortizationOfIntangibleAssets
Namespace Prefix: | us-gaap_
Data Type: | xbrli:monetaryItemType
Balance Type: | debit
Period Type: | duration

X
- Definition Amount before accumulated amortization of capitalized costs for computer software, including but not limited to, acquired and internally developed computer software. + References Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2009/role/commonPracticeRef -Publisher FASB -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Topic 985 -SubTopic 20 -Section 50 -Paragraph 1 -URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=6501960&loc=d3e128462-111756 + Details
Name: | us-gaap_CapitalizedComputerSoftwareGross
Namespace Prefix: | us-gaap_
Data Type: | xbrli:monetaryItemType
Balance Type: | debit
Period Type: | instant

X
- Definition Carrying amount as of the balance sheet date of cash collateral held for borrowed securities, for which the cash is restricted as to withdrawal or usage. + References Reference 1: http://fasb.org/us-gaap/role/ref/legacyRef -Publisher FASB -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Topic 942 -SubTopic 210 -Section S99 -Paragraph 1 -Subparagraph (SX 210.9-03.1) -URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=120398452&loc=d3e534808-122878 Reference 2: http://fasb.org/us-gaap/role/ref/legacyRef -Publisher FASB -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Topic 944 -SubTopic 210 -Section S99 -Paragraph 1 -Subparagraph (SX 210.7-03.(a),2) -URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=120400017&loc=d3e572229-122910 + Details
Name: | us-gaap_CashCollateralForBorrowedSecurities
Namespace Prefix: | us-gaap_
Data Type: | xbrli:monetaryItemType
Balance Type: | debit
Period Type: | instant

X
- Definition Amount of obligation to transfer good or service to customer for which consideration has been received or is receivable, classified as current. + References Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/disclosureRef -Publisher FASB -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Topic 606 -SubTopic 10 -Section 45 -Paragraph 1 -URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=121556615&loc=SL49130531-203044 Reference 2: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/disclosureRef -Publisher FASB -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Topic 606 -SubTopic 10 -Section 45 -Paragraph 2 -URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=121556615&loc=SL49130532-203044 Reference 3: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/disclosureRef -Publisher FASB -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Topic 606 -SubTopic 10 -Section 50 -Paragraph 8 -Subparagraph (a) -URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=121604090&loc=SL49130549-203045 + Details
Name: | us-gaap_ContractWithCustomerLiabilityCurrent
Namespace Prefix: | us-gaap_
Data Type: | xbrli:monetaryItemType
Balance Type: | credit
Period Type: | instant

X
- Definition Amount of revenue recognized that was previously included in balance of obligation to transfer good or service to customer for which consideration from customer has been received or is due. + References Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/disclosureRef -Publisher FASB -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Topic 606 -SubTopic 10 -Section 50 -Paragraph 8 -Subparagraph (b) -URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=121604090&loc=SL49130549-203045 + Details
Name: | us-gaap_ContractWithCustomerLiabilityRevenueRecognized
Namespace Prefix: | us-gaap_
Data Type: | xbrli:monetaryItemType
Balance Type: | credit
Period Type: | duration

X
- Definition The amount of expense recognized in the current period that reflects the allocation of the cost of tangible assets over the assets' useful lives. Includes production and non-production related depreciation. + References Reference 1: http://fasb.org/us-gaap/role/ref/legacyRef -Publisher FASB -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Topic 360 -SubTopic 10 -Section 50 -Paragraph 1 -Subparagraph (a) -URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=6391035&loc=d3e2868-110229 Reference 2: http://fasb.org/us-gaap/role/ref/legacyRef -Publisher FASB -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Topic 230 -SubTopic 10 -Section 45 -Paragraph 28 -Subparagraph (b) -URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=121586364&loc=d3e3602-108585 + Details
Name: | us-gaap_Depreciation
Namespace Prefix: | us-gaap_
Data Type: | xbrli:monetaryItemType
Balance Type: | debit
Period Type: | duration

X
- Definition Amount of amortization for assets, excluding financial assets and goodwill, lacking physical substance with finite life expected to be recognized in next fiscal year following current fiscal year. Excludes interim and annual periods when interim periods are reported from current statement of financial position date (rolling approach). + References Reference 1: http://fasb.org/us-gaap/role/ref/legacyRef -Publisher FASB -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Topic 350 -SubTopic 30 -Section 50 -Paragraph 2 -Subparagraph (a)(3) -URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=66006027&loc=d3e16323-109275 + Details
Name: | us-gaap_FiniteLivedIntangibleAssetsAmortizationExpenseNextTwelveMonths
Namespace Prefix: | us-gaap_
Data Type: | xbrli:monetaryItemType
Balance Type: | debit
Period Type: | instant

X
- Definition Amount of amortization for assets, excluding financial assets and goodwill, lacking physical substance with finite life expected to be recognized in fifth fiscal year following current fiscal year. Excludes interim and annual periods when interim periods are reported from current statement of financial position date (rolling approach). + References Reference 1: http://fasb.org/us-gaap/role/ref/legacyRef -Publisher FASB -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Topic 350 -SubTopic 30 -Section 50 -Paragraph 2 -Subparagraph (a)(3) -URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=66006027&loc=d3e16323-109275 + Details
Name: | us-gaap_FiniteLivedIntangibleAssetsAmortizationExpenseYearFive
Namespace Prefix: | us-gaap_
Data Type: | xbrli:monetaryItemType
Balance Type: | debit
Period Type: | instant

X
- Definition Amount of amortization for assets, excluding financial assets and goodwill, lacking physical substance with finite life expected to be recognized in fourth fiscal year following current fiscal year. Excludes interim and annual periods when interim periods are reported from current statement of financial position date (rolling approach). + References Reference 1: http://fasb.org/us-gaap/role/ref/legacyRef -Publisher FASB -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Topic 350 -SubTopic 30 -Section 50 -Paragraph 2 -Subparagraph (a)(3) -URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=66006027&loc=d3e16323-109275 + Details
Name: | us-gaap_FiniteLivedIntangibleAssetsAmortizationExpenseYearFour
Namespace Prefix: | us-gaap_
Data Type: | xbrli:monetaryItemType
Balance Type: | debit
Period Type: | instant

X
- Definition Amount of amortization for assets, excluding financial assets and goodwill, lacking physical substance with finite life expected to be recognized in third fiscal year following current fiscal year. Excludes interim and annual periods when interim periods are reported from current statement of financial position date (rolling approach). + References Reference 1: http://fasb.org/us-gaap/role/ref/legacyRef -Publisher FASB -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Topic 350 -SubTopic 30 -Section 50 -Paragraph 2 -Subparagraph (a)(3) -URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=66006027&loc=d3e16323-109275 + Details
Name: | us-gaap_FiniteLivedIntangibleAssetsAmortizationExpenseYearThree
Namespace Prefix: | us-gaap_
Data Type: | xbrli:monetaryItemType
Balance Type: | debit
Period Type: | instant

X
- Definition Amount of amortization for assets, excluding financial assets and goodwill, lacking physical substance with finite life expected to be recognized in second fiscal year following current fiscal year. Excludes interim and annual periods when interim periods are reported from current statement of financial position date (rolling approach). + References Reference 1: http://fasb.org/us-gaap/role/ref/legacyRef -Publisher FASB -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Topic 350 -SubTopic 30 -Section 50 -Paragraph 2 -Subparagraph (a)(3) -URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=66006027&loc=d3e16323-109275 + Details
Name: | us-gaap_FiniteLivedIntangibleAssetsAmortizationExpenseYearTwo
Namespace Prefix: | us-gaap_
Data Type: | xbrli:monetaryItemType
Balance Type: | debit
Period Type: | instant

X
- Definition Number of operating segments. An operating segment is a component of an enterprise: (a) that engages in business activities from which it may earn revenues and incur expenses (including revenues and expenses relating to transactions with other components of the same enterprise), (b) whose operating results are regularly reviewed by the enterprise's chief operating decision maker to make decisions about resources to be allocated to the segment and assess its performance, and (c) for which discrete financial information is available. An operating segment may engage in business activities for which it has yet to earn revenues, for example, start-up operations may be operating segments before earning revenues. + References Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2009/role/commonPracticeRef -Publisher FASB -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Topic 280 -SubTopic 10 -Section 50 -Paragraph 18 -URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=120311839&loc=d3e8672-108599 + Details
Name: | us-gaap_NumberOfOperatingSegments
Namespace Prefix: | us-gaap_
Data Type: | xbrli:integerItemType
Balance Type: | na
Period Type: | duration

X
- Definition Amount, excluding tax collected from customer, of revenue from satisfaction of performance obligation by transferring promised good or service to customer. Tax collected from customer is tax assessed by governmental authority that is both imposed on and concurrent with specific revenue-producing transaction, including, but not limited to, sales, use, value added and excise. + References Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/disclosureRef -Publisher FASB -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Topic 280 -SubTopic 10 -Section 50 -Paragraph 30 -Subparagraph (a) -URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=120311839&loc=d3e8906-108599 Reference 2: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/disclosureRef -Publisher FASB -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Topic 280 -SubTopic 10 -Section 50 -Paragraph 40 -URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=120311839&loc=d3e9031-108599 Reference 3: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/disclosureRef -Publisher FASB -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Topic 280 -SubTopic 10 -Section 50 -Paragraph 41 -Subparagraph (a) -URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=120311839&loc=d3e9038-108599 Reference 4: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/disclosureRef -Publisher FASB -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Topic 280 -SubTopic 10 -Section 50 -Paragraph 32 -Subparagraph (b) -URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=120311839&loc=d3e8933-108599 Reference 5: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/disclosureRef -Publisher FASB -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Topic 280 -SubTopic 10 -Section 50 -Paragraph 32 -Subparagraph (a) -URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=120311839&loc=d3e8933-108599 Reference 6: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/disclosureRef -Publisher FASB -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Topic 606 -SubTopic 10 -Section 50 -Paragraph 4 -Subparagraph (a) -URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=121604090&loc=SL49130543-203045 Reference 7: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/disclosureRef -Publisher FASB -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Topic 280 -SubTopic 10 -Section 50 -Paragraph 22 -Subparagraph (b) -URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=120311839&loc=d3e8736-108599 Reference 8: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/disclosureRef -Publisher FASB -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Topic 280 -SubTopic 10 -Section 50 -Paragraph 22 -Subparagraph (a) -URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=120311839&loc=d3e8736-108599 Reference 9: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/disclosureRef -Publisher FASB -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Topic 280 -SubTopic 10 -Section 50 -Paragraph 42 -URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=120311839&loc=d3e9054-108599 Reference 10: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/disclosureRef -Publisher FASB -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Topic 606 -SubTopic 10 -Section 50 -Paragraph 5 -URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=121604090&loc=SL49130545-203045 Reference 11: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/disclosureRef -Publisher FASB -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Topic 924 -SubTopic 10 -Section S99 -Paragraph 1 -Subparagraph (SAB Topic 11.L) -URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=6472922&loc=d3e499488-122856 + Details
Name: | us-gaap_RevenueFromContractWithCustomerExcludingAssessedTax
Namespace Prefix: | us-gaap_
Data Type: | xbrli:monetaryItemType
Balance Type: | credit
Period Type: | duration

X
- Definition Description of timing for satisfying performance obligation in contract with customer. Includes, but is not limited to, as services are rendered, and upon shipment, delivery or completion of service. + References Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/disclosureRef -Publisher FASB -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Topic 606 -SubTopic 10 -Section 50 -Paragraph 12 -Subparagraph (a) -URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=121604090&loc=SL49130554-203045 + Details
Name: | us-gaap_RevenuePerformanceObligationDescriptionOfTiming
Namespace Prefix: | us-gaap_
Data Type: | xbrli:stringItemType
Balance Type: | na
Period Type: | duration

X
- Definition Total of all stockholders' equity (deficit) items, net of receivables from officers, directors, owners, and affiliates of the entity which are attributable to the parent. The amount of the economic entity's stockholders' equity attributable to the parent excludes the amount of stockholders' equity which is allocable to that ownership interest in subsidiary equity which is not attributable to the parent (noncontrolling interest, minority interest). This excludes temporary equity and is sometimes called permanent equity. + References Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2009/role/commonPracticeRef -Publisher FASB -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Topic 235 -SubTopic 10 -Section S99 -Paragraph 1 -Subparagraph (SX 210.4-08(g)(1)(ii)) -URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=120395691&loc=d3e23780-122690 Reference 2: http://fasb.org/us-gaap/role/ref/legacyRef -Publisher FASB -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Topic 310 -SubTopic 10 -Section S99 -Paragraph 2 -Subparagraph (SAB Topic 4.E) -URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=27010918&loc=d3e74512-122707 Reference 3: http://fasb.org/us-gaap/role/ref/legacyRef -Publisher FASB -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Topic 210 -SubTopic 10 -Section S99 -Paragraph 1 -Subparagraph (SX 210.5-02(31)) -URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=120391452&loc=d3e13212-122682 Reference 4: http://fasb.org/us-gaap/role/ref/legacyRef -Publisher FASB -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Topic 210 -SubTopic 10 -Section S99 -Paragraph 1 -Subparagraph (SX 210.5-02(29)) -URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=120391452&loc=d3e13212-122682 Reference 5: http://fasb.org/us-gaap/role/ref/legacyRef -Publisher FASB -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Topic 210 -SubTopic 10 -Section S99 -Paragraph 1 -Subparagraph (SX 210.5-02(30)) -URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=120391452&loc=d3e13212-122682 Reference 6: http://www.xbrl.org/2009/role/commonPracticeRef -Publisher FASB -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Topic 825 -SubTopic 10 -Section 50 -Paragraph 28 -Subparagraph (f) -URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=75031198&loc=d3e14064-108612 Reference 7: http://www.xbrl.org/2009/role/commonPracticeRef -Publisher FASB -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Topic 323 -SubTopic 10 -Section 50 -Paragraph 3 -Subparagraph (c) -URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=114001798&loc=d3e33918-111571 + Details
Name: | us-gaap_StockholdersEquity
Namespace Prefix: | us-gaap_
Data Type: | xbrli:monetaryItemType
Balance Type: | credit
Period Type: | instant

X
- Definition The charge against earnings resulting from the aggregate write down of tangible assets from their carrying value to their fair value. + References Reference 1: http://fasb.org/us-gaap/role/ref/legacyRef -Publisher FASB -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Topic 360 -SubTopic 10 -Section 50 -Paragraph 2 -Subparagraph (b) -URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=109226691&loc=d3e2921-110230 Reference 2: http://fasb.org/us-gaap/role/ref/legacyRef -Publisher FASB -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Topic 205 -SubTopic 20 -Section 50 -Paragraph 1 -Subparagraph (b) -URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=109222650&loc=d3e1361-107760 + Details
Name: | us-gaap_TangibleAssetImpairmentCharges
Namespace Prefix: | us-gaap_
Data Type: | xbrli:monetaryItemType
Balance Type: | debit
Period Type: | duration

X
- Details
Name: | srt_AircraftTypeAxis=srt_B757200Member
Namespace Prefix: |
Data Type: | na
Balance Type: |
Period Type: |

X
- Details
Name: | us-gaap_StatementEquityComponentsAxis=us-gaap_RetainedEarningsMember
Namespace Prefix: |
Data Type: | na
Balance Type: |
Period Type: |

X
- Details
Name: | srt_CumulativeEffectPeriodOfAdoptionAxis=srt_CumulativeEffectPeriodOfAdoptionAdjustmentMember
Namespace Prefix: |
Data Type: | na
Balance Type: |
Period Type: |

X
- Details
Name: | srt_RangeAxis=srt_MinimumMember
Namespace Prefix: |
Data Type: | na
Balance Type: |
Period Type: |

X
- Details
Name: | srt_RangeAxis=srt_MaximumMember
Namespace Prefix: |
Data Type: | na
Balance Type: |
Period Type: |

X
- Details
Name: | us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis=us-gaap_SoftwareAndSoftwareDevelopmentCostsMember
Namespace Prefix: |
Data Type: | na
Balance Type: |
Period Type: |

X
- Details
Name: | srt_ProductOrServiceAxis=ual_AdvanceTicketSalesMember
Namespace Prefix: |
Data Type: | na
Balance Type: |
Period Type: |

X
- Details
Name: | srt_ProductOrServiceAxis=ual_PassengerAncillaryFeesMember
Namespace Prefix: |
Data Type: | na
Balance Type: |
Period Type: |

X
- Details
Name: | srt_ProductOrServiceAxis=us-gaap_ProductAndServiceOtherMember
Namespace Prefix: |
Data Type: | na
Balance Type: |
Period Type: |

X
- Details
Name: | us-gaap_TypeOfArrangementAxis=ual_ChaseAndOtherPartnerAgreementsMember
Namespace Prefix: |
Data Type: | na
Balance Type: |
Period Type: |