XML 59 R43.htm IDEA: XBRL DOCUMENT
v3.22.4

SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES (Details) $ in Millions | 1 Months Ended | 3 Months Ended | 12 Months Ended |  |
--- | --- | --- | --- | --- | ---
Dec. 31, 2022 USD ($) | Dec. 31, 2022 USD ($) | Dec. 31, 2022 USD ($) aircraft | Dec. 31, 2021 USD ($) aircraft | Dec. 31, 2020 USD ($) aircraft | Dec. 31, 2019 USD ($) | Mar. 13, 2019 aircraft
New Accounting Pronouncements or Change in Accounting Principle [Line Items] |  |  |  |  |  |  |
Incurred storm costs | $ 390 |  |  |  |  |  |
Net income (loss) |  | $ (220) | $ 539 | $ 977 | $ (3,074) |  |
Loss on extinguishment |  |  | 193 | 28 | 0 |  |
Payroll support and voluntary employee programs, net |  |  | 0 | 2,960 | 967 |  |
Other (gains) losses, net |  |  | (12) | 50 | (158) |  |
Stockholders' equity attributable to parent | 10,687 | 10,687 | 10,687 | 10,414 | 8,876 | $ 9,832 |
Impairment charges |  |  | $ 28 | $ 12 | $ 32 |  |
Number of aircraft under accelerated retirement | aircraft |  |  | 10 | 8 | 20 |  |
Total operating revenues |  |  | $ 23,814 | $ 15,790 | $ 9,048 |  |
Advertising costs |  |  | 224 | 185 | 156 |  |
Capitalized computer software, net | 928 | 928 | 928 | 886 |  |  |
Computer software depreciation expense |  |  | $ 232 | 213 | 203 |  |
Number of aircraft grounded | aircraft |  |  |  |  |  |  | 34
Length of agreements with co-brand, payment, and loyalty partners (in years) |  |  | 10 years |  |  |  |
Unionized Employees concentration risk | Workforce Subject to Collective Bargaining Arrangements |  |  |  |  |  |  |
New Accounting Pronouncements or Change in Accounting Principle [Line Items] |  |  |  |  |  |  |
Full-time employees unionized (as a percent) |  |  | 83.00% |  |  |  |
Unionized Employees concentration risk | Number of Employees, Total |  |  |  |  |  |  |
New Accounting Pronouncements or Change in Accounting Principle [Line Items] |  |  |  |  |  |  |
Full-time employees unionized (as a percent) |  |  | 65.00% |  |  |  |
Latin America |  |  |  |  |  |  |
New Accounting Pronouncements or Change in Accounting Principle [Line Items] |  |  |  |  |  |  |
Total operating revenues |  |  | $ 811 | 475 | 184 |  |
North America |  |  |  |  |  |  |
New Accounting Pronouncements or Change in Accounting Principle [Line Items] |  |  |  |  |  |  |
Total operating revenues |  |  | 23,000 | 15,300 | 8,900 |  |
Other Intangible Assets |  |  |  |  |  |  |
New Accounting Pronouncements or Change in Accounting Principle [Line Items] |  |  |  |  |  |  |
Gross carrying amount of indefinite-lived intangible assets | 295 | 295 | $ 295 | 295 |  |  |
Aircraft Residual Value |  |  |  |  |  |  |
New Accounting Pronouncements or Change in Accounting Principle [Line Items] |  |  |  |  |  |  |
Maximum percentage of cost estimated as residual value (as a percent) |  |  | 18.00% |  |  |  |
Minimum percentage of cost estimated residual value (as a percent) |  |  | 13.00% |  |  |  |
Ground property and equipment |  |  |  |  |  |  |
New Accounting Pronouncements or Change in Accounting Principle [Line Items] |  |  |  |  |  |  |
Maximum percentage of cost estimated as residual value (as a percent) |  |  | 10.00% |  |  |  |
Minimum percentage of cost estimated residual value (as a percent) |  |  | 0.00% |  |  |  |
Maximum | Flight equipment |  |  |  |  |  |  |
New Accounting Pronouncements or Change in Accounting Principle [Line Items] |  |  |  |  |  |  |
Useful life (in years) |  |  | 25 years |  |  |  |
Maximum | Ground property and equipment |  |  |  |  |  |  |
New Accounting Pronouncements or Change in Accounting Principle [Line Items] |  |  |  |  |  |  |
Useful life (in years) |  |  | 30 years |  |  |  |
Maximum | Software |  |  |  |  |  |  |
New Accounting Pronouncements or Change in Accounting Principle [Line Items] |  |  |  |  |  |  |
Useful life (in years) |  |  | 15 years |  |  |  |
Minimum | Ground property and equipment |  |  |  |  |  |  |
New Accounting Pronouncements or Change in Accounting Principle [Line Items] |  |  |  |  |  |  |
Useful life (in years) |  |  | 5 years |  |  |  |
Minimum | Software |  |  |  |  |  |  |
New Accounting Pronouncements or Change in Accounting Principle [Line Items] |  |  |  |  |  |  |
Useful life (in years) |  |  | 5 years |  |  |  |
Fuel derivative contracts |  |  |  |  |  |  |
New Accounting Pronouncements or Change in Accounting Principle [Line Items] |  |  |  |  |  |  |
Collateral deposits | 106 | 106 | $ 106 | 175 |  |  |
Interest rate derivatives | Other noncurrent liabilities |  |  |  |  |  |  |
New Accounting Pronouncements or Change in Accounting Principle [Line Items] |  |  |  |  |  |  |
Collateral deposits | 0 | 0 | 0 |  |  |  |
Retained earnings |  |  |  |  |  |  |
New Accounting Pronouncements or Change in Accounting Principle [Line Items] |  |  |  |  |  |  |
Stockholders' equity attributable to parent | 16,261 | 16,261 | 16,261 | 15,774 | 14,777 | 17,945 |
Accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) |  |  |  |  |  |  |
New Accounting Pronouncements or Change in Accounting Principle [Line Items] |  |  |  |  |  |  |
Stockholders' equity attributable to parent | $ 344 | $ 344 | $ 344 | 388 | (105) | $ (61) |
Cumulative Effect, Period of Adoption, Adjustment |  |  |  |  |  |  |
New Accounting Pronouncements or Change in Accounting Principle [Line Items] |  |  |  |  |  |  |
Stockholders' equity attributable to parent |  |  |  | (245) | 0 |  |
Cumulative Effect, Period of Adoption, Adjustment | Retained earnings |  |  |  |  |  |  |
New Accounting Pronouncements or Change in Accounting Principle [Line Items] |  |  |  |  |  |  |
Stockholders' equity attributable to parent |  |  |  | $ 55 | 20 |  |
Cumulative Effect, Period of Adoption, Adjustment | Accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) |  |  |  |  |  |  |
New Accounting Pronouncements or Change in Accounting Principle [Line Items] |  |  |  |  |  |  |
Stockholders' equity attributable to parent |  |  |  |  | $ (20) |  |

X
- Definition Incurred Storm Costs + References No definition available. + Details
Name: | luv_IncurredStormCosts
Namespace Prefix: | luv_
Data Type: | xbrli:monetaryItemType
Balance Type: | debit
Period Type: | duration

X
- Definition Maximum Length Of Agreements With Co-Brand, Payment, And Loyalty Partners + References No definition available. + Details
Name: | luv_MaximumLengthOfAgreementsWithCoBrandPaymentAndLoyaltyPartners
Namespace Prefix: | luv_
Data Type: | xbrli:durationItemType
Balance Type: | na
Period Type: | duration

X
- Definition Number Of Aircraft Grounded Under Emergency Order + References No definition available. + Details
Name: | luv_NumberOfAircraftGroundedUnderEmergencyOrder
Namespace Prefix: | luv_
Data Type: | xbrli:integerItemType
Balance Type: | na
Period Type: | instant

X
- Definition Number Of Aircraft Under Accelerated Retirement + References No definition available. + Details
Name: | luv_NumberOfAircraftUnderAcceleratedRetirement
Namespace Prefix: | luv_
Data Type: | xbrli:integerItemType
Balance Type: | na
Period Type: | duration

X
- Definition Payroll Support And Voluntary Employee Programs, Net + References No definition available. + Details
Name: | luv_PayrollSupportAndVoluntaryEmployeeProgramsNet
Namespace Prefix: | luv_
Data Type: | xbrli:monetaryItemType
Balance Type: | credit
Period Type: | duration

X
- Definition The maximum percentage of cost used to determine the residual value of long lived, physical assets used in the normal conduct of business and not intended for resale. Examples include land and improvements, buildings, and production equipment. + References No definition available. + Details
Name: | luv_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentPercentageCostToResidualValueMaximum
Namespace Prefix: | luv_
Data Type: | dtr-types:percentItemType
Balance Type: | na
Period Type: | duration

X
- Definition The minimum percentage of cost used to determine the residual value of long lived, physical assets used in the normal conduct of business and not intended for resale. Examples include land and improvements, buildings, and production equipment. + References No definition available. + Details
Name: | luv_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentPercentageCostToResidualValueMinimum
Namespace Prefix: | luv_
Data Type: | dtr-types:percentItemType
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 https://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 Amount of expense for amortization of capitalized computer software costs. + References Reference 1: http://fasb.org/us-gaap/role/ref/legacyRef -Publisher FASB -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Topic 985 -SubTopic 20 -Section 50 -Paragraph 1 -Subparagraph (b)(1) -URI https://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=6501960&loc=d3e128462-111756 Reference 2: http://fasb.org/us-gaap/role/ref/legacyRef -Publisher FASB -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Topic 985 -SubTopic 20 -Section 50 -Paragraph 2 -URI https://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=6501960&loc=d3e128487-111756 + Details
Name: | us-gaap_CapitalizedComputerSoftwareAmortization1
Namespace Prefix: | us-gaap_
Data Type: | xbrli:monetaryItemType
Balance Type: | debit
Period Type: | duration

X
- Definition The carrying amount of capitalized computer software costs net of accumulated amortization as of the balance sheet date. + References Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/disclosureRef -Publisher FASB -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Topic 985 -SubTopic 20 -Section 50 -Paragraph 1 -Subparagraph (a) -URI https://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=6501960&loc=d3e128462-111756 + Details
Name: | us-gaap_CapitalizedComputerSoftwareNet
Namespace Prefix: | us-gaap_
Data Type: | xbrli:monetaryItemType
Balance Type: | debit
Period Type: | instant

X
- Definition The aggregate fair value of assets that are already posted, at the end of the reporting period, as collateral for derivative instruments with credit-risk-related contingent features. + References Reference 1: http://fasb.org/us-gaap/role/ref/legacyRef -Publisher FASB -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Topic 815 -SubTopic 10 -Section 50 -Paragraph 4H -Subparagraph (d) -URI https://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=125515794&loc=SL5624258-113959 + Details
Name: | us-gaap_CollateralAlreadyPostedAggregateFairValue
Namespace Prefix: | us-gaap_
Data Type: | xbrli:monetaryItemType
Balance Type: | debit
Period Type: | instant

X
- Definition For an entity that discloses a concentration risk in relation to quantitative amount, which serves as the "benchmark" (or denominator) in the equation, this concept represents the concentration percentage derived from the division. + References Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/disclosureRef -Publisher FASB -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Topic 280 -SubTopic 10 -Section 50 -Paragraph 42 -URI https://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=126901519&loc=d3e9054-108599 Reference 2: http://fasb.org/us-gaap/role/ref/legacyRef -Publisher FASB -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Topic 275 -SubTopic 10 -Section 50 -Paragraph 18 -URI https://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=99393423&loc=d3e6351-108592 Reference 3: http://fasb.org/us-gaap/role/ref/legacyRef -Publisher FASB -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Topic 825 -SubTopic 10 -Section 50 -Paragraph 20 -URI https://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=123594938&loc=d3e13531-108611 Reference 4: http://fasb.org/us-gaap/role/ref/legacyRef -Publisher FASB -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Topic 825 -SubTopic 10 -Section 50 -Paragraph 21 -Subparagraph (a) -URI https://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=123594938&loc=d3e13537-108611 Reference 5: http://fasb.org/us-gaap/role/ref/legacyRef -Publisher FASB -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Topic 275 -SubTopic 10 -Section 50 -Paragraph 20 -URI https://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=99393423&loc=d3e6404-108592 + Details
Name: | us-gaap_ConcentrationRiskPercentage1
Namespace Prefix: | us-gaap_
Data Type: | dtr-types:percentItemType
Balance Type: | na
Period Type: | duration

X
- Definition Difference between the fair value of payments made and the carrying amount of debt which is extinguished prior to maturity. + References Reference 1: http://fasb.org/us-gaap/role/ref/legacyRef -Publisher FASB -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Topic 470 -SubTopic 50 -Section 40 -Paragraph 4 -URI https://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=126972273&loc=d3e12355-112629 Reference 2: http://fasb.org/us-gaap/role/ref/legacyRef -Publisher FASB -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Topic 470 -SubTopic 50 -Section 40 -Paragraph 2 -URI https://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=126972273&loc=d3e12317-112629 Reference 3: 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 https://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=126954810&loc=d3e3602-108585 + Details
Name: | us-gaap_GainsLossesOnExtinguishmentOfDebt
Namespace Prefix: | us-gaap_
Data Type: | xbrli:monetaryItemType
Balance Type: | credit
Period Type: | duration

X
- Definition Carrying amount, (original cost adjusted for any previously recognized amortization and impairment) as of the balance sheet date, of domestic slots, route authorities, airport operating and gate lease rights and related intangibles. + References No definition available. + Details
Name: | us-gaap_IndefiniteLivedDomesticSlotsAndRoutes
Namespace Prefix: | us-gaap_
Data Type: | xbrli:monetaryItemType
Balance Type: | debit
Period Type: | instant

X
- Definition The portion of profit or loss for the period, net of income taxes, which is attributable to the parent. + References Reference 1: http://fasb.org/us-gaap/role/ref/legacyRef -Publisher FASB -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Topic 942 -SubTopic 220 -Section S99 -Paragraph 1 -Subparagraph (SX 210.9-04(22)) -URI https://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=120399700&loc=SL114874048-224260 Reference 2: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/disclosureRef -Publisher FASB -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Topic 280 -SubTopic 10 -Section 50 -Paragraph 32 -Subparagraph (f) -URI https://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=126901519&loc=d3e8933-108599 Reference 3: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/disclosureRef -Publisher FASB -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Topic 250 -SubTopic 10 -Section 50 -Paragraph 4 -URI https://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=124431687&loc=d3e22595-107794 Reference 4: http://fasb.org/us-gaap/role/ref/legacyRef -Publisher FASB -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Topic 944 -SubTopic 220 -Section S99 -Paragraph 1 -Subparagraph (SX 210.7-04(18)) -URI https://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=120400993&loc=SL114874131-224263 Reference 5: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/disclosureRef -Publisher FASB -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Topic 815 -SubTopic 40 -Section 65 -Paragraph 1 -Subparagraph (f) -URI https://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=126732423&loc=SL123482106-238011 Reference 6: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/disclosureRef -Publisher FASB -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Topic 220 -SubTopic 10 -Section 50 -Paragraph 6 -URI https://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=124431353&loc=SL124452729-227067 Reference 7: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/disclosureRef -Publisher FASB -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Topic 470 -SubTopic 10 -Section S99 -Paragraph 1B -Subparagraph (SX 210.13-02(a)(5)) -URI https://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=126975872&loc=SL124442552-122756 Reference 8: http://fasb.org/us-gaap/role/ref/legacyRef -Publisher FASB -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Topic 220 -SubTopic 10 -Section S99 -Paragraph 2 -Subparagraph (SX 210.5-03(20)) -URI https://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=126953954&loc=SL114868664-224227 Reference 9: http://fasb.org/us-gaap/role/ref/legacyRef -Publisher FASB -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Topic 230 -SubTopic 10 -Section 45 -Paragraph 28 -URI https://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=126954810&loc=d3e3602-108585 Reference 10: 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 https://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=124431687&loc=d3e22499-107794 Reference 11: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/disclosureRef -Publisher FASB -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Topic 470 -SubTopic 10 -Section S99 -Paragraph 1A -Subparagraph (SX 210.13-01(a)(4)(iv)) -URI https://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=126975872&loc=SL124442526-122756 Reference 12: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/disclosureRef -Publisher FASB -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Topic 470 -SubTopic 10 -Section S99 -Paragraph 1A -Subparagraph (SX 210.13-01(a)(4)(iii)(A)) -URI https://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=126975872&loc=SL124442526-122756 Reference 13: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/disclosureRef -Publisher FASB -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Topic 470 -SubTopic 10 -Section S99 -Paragraph 1B -Subparagraph (SX 210.13-02(a)(4)(i)) -URI https://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=126975872&loc=SL124442552-122756 Reference 14: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/disclosureRef -Publisher FASB -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Topic 470 -SubTopic 10 -Section S99 -Paragraph 1A -Subparagraph (SX 210.13-01(a)(4)(i)) -URI https://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=126975872&loc=SL124442526-122756 Reference 15: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/disclosureRef -Publisher FASB -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Topic 250 -SubTopic 10 -Section 50 -Paragraph 9 -URI https://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=124431687&loc=d3e22663-107794 Reference 16: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/disclosureRef -Publisher FASB -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Topic 470 -SubTopic 10 -Section S99 -Paragraph 1B -Subparagraph (SX 210.13-02(a)(4)(iv)) -URI https://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=126975872&loc=SL124442552-122756 Reference 17: http://www.xbrl.org/2009/role/commonPracticeRef -Publisher FASB -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Topic 470 -SubTopic 10 -Section S99 -Paragraph 1A -Subparagraph (SX 210.13-01(a)(4)(ii)) -URI https://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=126975872&loc=SL124442526-122756 Reference 18: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/disclosureRef -Publisher FASB -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Topic 825 -SubTopic 10 -Section 50 -Paragraph 28 -Subparagraph (f) -URI https://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=123596393&loc=d3e14064-108612 Reference 19: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/disclosureRef -Publisher FASB -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Topic 250 -SubTopic 10 -Section 50 -Paragraph 3 -URI https://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=124431687&loc=d3e22583-107794 Reference 20: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/disclosureRef -Publisher FASB -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Topic 235 -SubTopic 10 -Section S99 -Paragraph 1 -Subparagraph (SX 210.4-08(g)(1)(ii)) -URI https://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=120395691&loc=d3e23780-122690 Reference 21: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/disclosureRef -Publisher FASB -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Topic 260 -SubTopic 10 -Section 45 -Paragraph 60B -Subparagraph (a) -URI https://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=126958026&loc=SL5780133-109256 Reference 22: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/disclosureRef -Publisher FASB -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Topic 323 -SubTopic 10 -Section 50 -Paragraph 3 -Subparagraph (c) -URI https://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=114001798&loc=d3e33918-111571 Reference 23: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/disclosureRef -Publisher FASB -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Topic 250 -SubTopic 10 -Section 50 -Paragraph 8 -URI https://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=124431687&loc=d3e22658-107794 Reference 24: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/disclosureRef -Publisher FASB -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Topic 220 -SubTopic 10 -Section 45 -Paragraph 1A -Subparagraph (a) -URI https://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=126968391&loc=SL7669619-108580 Reference 25: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/exampleRef -Publisher FASB -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Topic 280 -SubTopic 10 -Section 50 -Paragraph 31 -URI https://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=126901519&loc=d3e8924-108599 Reference 26: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/disclosureRef -Publisher FASB -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Topic 250 -SubTopic 10 -Section 50 -Paragraph 11 -Subparagraph (b) -URI https://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=124431687&loc=d3e22694-107794 Reference 27: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/disclosureRef -Publisher FASB -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Topic 250 -SubTopic 10 -Section 50 -Paragraph 11 -Subparagraph (a) -URI https://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=124431687&loc=d3e22694-107794 Reference 28: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/disclosureRef -Publisher FASB -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Topic 205 -SubTopic 20 -Section 50 -Paragraph 7 -URI https://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=109222650&loc=SL51721683-107760 Reference 29: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/disclosureRef -Publisher FASB -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Topic 220 -SubTopic 10 -Section 45 -Paragraph 1B -Subparagraph (a) -URI https://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=126968391&loc=SL7669625-108580 Reference 30: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/disclosureRef -Publisher FASB -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Topic 280 -SubTopic 10 -Section 50 -Paragraph 22 -URI https://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=126901519&loc=d3e8736-108599 Reference 31: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/disclosureRef -Publisher FASB -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Topic 470 -SubTopic 10 -Section S99 -Paragraph 1A -Subparagraph (SX 210.13-01(a)(5)) -URI https://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=126975872&loc=SL124442526-122756 Reference 32: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/disclosureRef -Publisher FASB -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Topic 470 -SubTopic 10 -Section S99 -Paragraph 1B -Subparagraph (SX 210.13-02(a)(4)(iii)(B)) -URI https://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=126975872&loc=SL124442552-122756 Reference 33: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/disclosureRef -Publisher FASB -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Topic 470 -SubTopic 10 -Section S99 -Paragraph 1B -Subparagraph (SX 210.13-02(a)(4)(iii)(A)) -URI https://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=126975872&loc=SL124442552-122756 Reference 34: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/disclosureRef -Publisher FASB -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Topic 280 -SubTopic 10 -Section 50 -Paragraph 30 -Subparagraph (b) -URI https://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=126901519&loc=d3e8906-108599 Reference 35: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/disclosureRef -Publisher FASB -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Topic 280 -SubTopic 10 -Section 50 -Paragraph 32 -Subparagraph (c) -URI https://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=126901519&loc=d3e8933-108599 + Details
Name: | us-gaap_NetIncomeLoss
Namespace Prefix: | us-gaap_
Data Type: | xbrli:monetaryItemType
Balance Type: | credit
Period Type: | duration

X
- Definition Line items represent financial concepts included in a table. These concepts are used to disclose reportable information associated with domain members defined in one or many axes to the table. + References No definition available. + Details
Name: | us-gaap_NewAccountingPronouncementsOrChangeInAccountingPrincipleLineItems
Namespace Prefix: | us-gaap_
Data Type: | xbrli:stringItemType
Balance Type: | na
Period Type: | duration

X
- Definition Amount of income (expense) related to nonoperating activities, classified as other. + References Reference 1: http://fasb.org/us-gaap/role/ref/legacyRef -Publisher FASB -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Topic 220 -SubTopic 10 -Section S99 -Paragraph 2 -Subparagraph (SX 210.5-03.9) -URI https://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=126953954&loc=SL114868664-224227 + Details
Name: | us-gaap_OtherNonoperatingIncomeExpense
Namespace Prefix: | us-gaap_
Data Type: | xbrli:monetaryItemType
Balance Type: | credit
Period Type: | duration

X
- Definition Useful life of long lived, physical assets used in the normal conduct of business and not intended for resale, in 'PnYnMnDTnHnMnS' format, for example, 'P1Y5M13D' represents the reported fact of one year, five months, and thirteen days. Examples include, but not limited to, land, buildings, machinery and equipment, office equipment, furniture and fixtures, and computer equipment. + References No definition available. + Details
Name: | us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentUsefulLife
Namespace Prefix: | us-gaap_
Data Type: | xbrli:durationItemType
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 https://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=126901519&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 https://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=126901519&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 https://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=126901519&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 https://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=126901519&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 https://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=126901519&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 https://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=126920106&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 https://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=126901519&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 https://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=126901519&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 https://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=126901519&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 https://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=126920106&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 https://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 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 https://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=120395691&loc=d3e23780-122690 Reference 2: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/exampleRef -Publisher FASB -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Topic 852 -SubTopic 10 -Section 55 -Paragraph 10 -URI https://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=84165509&loc=d3e56426-112766 Reference 3: 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 https://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=122038336&loc=d3e74512-122707 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(31)) -URI https://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(29)) -URI https://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=120391452&loc=d3e13212-122682 Reference 6: 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 https://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=120391452&loc=d3e13212-122682 Reference 7: http://www.xbrl.org/2009/role/commonPracticeRef -Publisher FASB -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Topic 825 -SubTopic 10 -Section 50 -Paragraph 28 -Subparagraph (f) -URI https://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=123596393&loc=d3e14064-108612 Reference 8: http://www.xbrl.org/2009/role/commonPracticeRef -Publisher FASB -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Topic 323 -SubTopic 10 -Section 50 -Paragraph 3 -Subparagraph (c) -URI https://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 https://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 https://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: | us-gaap_ConcentrationRiskByTypeAxis=us-gaap_UnionizedEmployeesConcentrationRiskMember
Namespace Prefix: |
Data Type: | na
Balance Type: |
Period Type: |

X
- Details
Name: | us-gaap_ConcentrationRiskByBenchmarkAxis=us-gaap_WorkforceSubjectToCollectiveBargainingArrangementsMember
Namespace Prefix: |
Data Type: | na
Balance Type: |
Period Type: |

X
- Details
Name: | us-gaap_ConcentrationRiskByBenchmarkAxis=us-gaap_NumberOfEmployeesTotalMember
Namespace Prefix: |
Data Type: | na
Balance Type: |
Period Type: |

X
- Details
Name: | srt_StatementGeographicalAxis=srt_LatinAmericaMember
Namespace Prefix: |
Data Type: | na
Balance Type: |
Period Type: |

X
- Details
Name: | srt_StatementGeographicalAxis=srt_NorthAmericaMember
Namespace Prefix: |
Data Type: | na
Balance Type: |
Period Type: |

X
- Details
Name: | us-gaap_IndefiniteLivedIntangibleAssetsByMajorClassAxis=us-gaap_OtherIntangibleAssetsMember
Namespace Prefix: |
Data Type: | na
Balance Type: |
Period Type: |

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

X
- Details
Name: | us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis=us-gaap_OtherCapitalizedPropertyPlantAndEquipmentMember
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_FlightEquipmentMember
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_RangeAxis=srt_MinimumMember
Namespace Prefix: |
Data Type: | na
Balance Type: |
Period Type: |

X
- Details
Name: | us-gaap_DerivativeInstrumentRiskAxis=us-gaap_CommodityContractMember
Namespace Prefix: |
Data Type: | na
Balance Type: |
Period Type: |

X
- Details
Name: | us-gaap_DerivativeInstrumentRiskAxis=us-gaap_InterestRateSwapMember
Namespace Prefix: |
Data Type: | na
Balance Type: |
Period Type: |

X
- Details
Name: | us-gaap_BalanceSheetLocationAxis=us-gaap_OtherNoncurrentLiabilitiesMember
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: | us-gaap_StatementEquityComponentsAxis=us-gaap_AccumulatedOtherComprehensiveIncomeMember
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: |