XML 134 R55.htm IDEA: XBRL DOCUMENT
v3.25.0.1

FINANCING ACTIVITIES - Narrative (Details) |  |  |  | 3 Months Ended | 12 Months Ended |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |
--- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | ---
Dec. 31, 2024 USD ($) | May 01, 2020 USD ($) $ / shares | Feb. 28, 1997 USD ($) | Jun. 30, 2024 USD ($) | Dec. 31, 2024 USD ($) | Dec. 31, 2023 USD ($) | Dec. 31, 2022 USD ($) | Jan. 01, 2022 USD ($) | Dec. 31, 2021 USD ($) | Dec. 31, 2020 USD ($) | Jul. 31, 2020 USD ($) | Jun. 08, 2020 USD ($) | May 04, 2020 USD ($) | Feb. 29, 2020 USD ($) | Nov. 30, 2017 USD ($) | Nov. 30, 2016 USD ($)
Debt Instrument [Line Items] |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |
Stockholders' equity attributable to parent | $ 10,350,000,000 |  |  |  | $ 10,350,000,000 | $ 10,515,000,000 | $ 10,687,000,000 |  | $ 10,414,000,000 |  |  |  |  |  |  |
Long-term debt | 6,697,000,000 |  |  |  | 6,697,000,000 |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |
Payments for repurchased common stock warrants |  |  |  | $ 6,000,000 | 6,000,000 | 0 | 0 |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |
Minimum level of liquidity required | 1,500,000,000 |  |  |  | 1,500,000,000 |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |
Outstanding letters of credit | 377,000,000 |  |  |  | 377,000,000 |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |
Net book value of assets pledged as collateral for the Company's secured borrowings, primarily aircraft and engines | 0 |  |  |  | 0 |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |
Revolving Credit Facility |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |
Debt Instrument [Line Items] |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |
Credit outstanding | 0 |  |  |  | 0 | 0 |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |
Capital in excess of par value |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |
Debt Instrument [Line Items] |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |
Stockholders' equity attributable to parent | $ 4,199,000,000 |  |  |  | $ 4,199,000,000 | 4,153,000,000 | 4,037,000,000 |  | 4,224,000,000 |  |  |  |  |  |  |
Cumulative Effect, Period of Adoption, Adjustment |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |
Debt Instrument [Line Items] |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |
Stockholders' equity attributable to parent |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  | (245,000,000) |  |  |  |  |  |  |
Cumulative Effect, Period of Adoption, Adjustment | Capital in excess of par value |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |
Debt Instrument [Line Items] |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |
Stockholders' equity attributable to parent |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  | $ (300,000,000) |  |  |  |  |  |  |
Convertible Notes |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |
Debt Instrument [Line Items] |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |
Term (in years) |  |  |  |  | 5 years |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |
Effective interest rate (as a percent) | 1.90% |  |  |  | 1.90% |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |
Convertible Notes | Accounting Standards Update 2020-06 |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |
Debt Instrument [Line Items] |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |
Long-term debt |  |  |  |  |  |  |  | $ 300,000,000 |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |
Convertible Notes | Cumulative Effect, Period of Adoption, Adjustment | Accounting Standards Update 2020-06 | Capital in excess of par value |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |
Debt Instrument [Line Items] |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |
Stockholders' equity attributable to parent |  |  |  |  |  |  |  | $ 300,000,000 |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |
Line of Credit |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |
Debt Instrument [Line Items] |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |
Maximum borrowing capacity | $ 1,000,000,000 |  |  |  | $ 1,000,000,000 |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |
Total 5.125 Notes due 2027 | Unsecured Debt |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |
Debt Instrument [Line Items] |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |
Long term debt |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  | $ 2,000,000,000 |  |  |  |  |  |
5.125 Unsecured Notes due 2027 |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |
Debt Instrument [Line Items] |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |
Face amount of debt |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  | $ 1,300,000,000 |  |  |  |
5.125% Notes | Unsecured Debt |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |
Debt Instrument [Line Items] |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |
Long term debt | $ 1,727,000,000 |  |  |  | $ 1,727,000,000 | 1,727,000,000 |  |  |  |  | $ 700,000,000 |  |  |  |  |
Interest rate stated in the debt agreement (as a percent) | 5.125% |  |  |  | 5.125% |  |  |  |  | 5.125% |  |  |  |  |  |
Early prepayments made on debt |  |  |  |  |  |  | 272,000,000 |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |
5.25% Notes due 2025 |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |
Debt Instrument [Line Items] |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |
Face amount of debt |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  | $ 1,550,000,000 |  |  | $ 1,250,000,000 |  |  |
5.25% Notes due 2025 | Unsecured Debt |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |
Debt Instrument [Line Items] |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |
Long term debt | $ 0 |  |  |  | $ 0 | 1,302,000,000 |  |  |  |  | $ 300,000,000 |  |  |  |  |
Interest rate stated in the debt agreement (as a percent) | 5.25% |  |  |  | 5.25% |  |  |  |  | 5.25% |  |  |  |  |  |
Early prepayments made on debt |  |  |  |  |  |  | $ 248,000,000 |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |
2.625% Notes |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |
Debt Instrument [Line Items] |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |
Face amount of debt |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  | $ 500,000,000 |  |
Interest rate stated in the debt agreement (as a percent) |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  | 2.625% |  |
2.625% Notes | Unsecured Debt |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |
Debt Instrument [Line Items] |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |
Long term debt | $ 500,000,000 |  |  |  | $ 500,000,000 | 500,000,000 |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |
Interest rate stated in the debt agreement (as a percent) | 2.625% |  |  |  | 2.625% |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |
Unsecured Senior Notes Due 2027 - 3.45% |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |
Debt Instrument [Line Items] |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |
Face amount of debt |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  | $ 300,000,000 |
Interest rate stated in the debt agreement (as a percent) |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  | 3.45% |
Unsecured Senior Notes Due 2027 - 3.45% | Treasury Rate |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |
Debt Instrument [Line Items] |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |
Spread on variable rate (as a percent) |  |  | 0.20% |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |
3.00% Notes |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |
Debt Instrument [Line Items] |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |
Face amount of debt |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  | $ 300,000,000
Interest rate stated in the debt agreement (as a percent) |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  | 3.00%
3.00% Notes | Unsecured Debt |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |
Debt Instrument [Line Items] |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |
Long term debt | $ 300,000,000 |  |  |  | $ 300,000,000 | 300,000,000 |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |
Interest rate stated in the debt agreement (as a percent) | 3.00% |  |  |  | 3.00% |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |
7.375% Debentures |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |
Debt Instrument [Line Items] |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |
Face amount of debt |  |  | $ 100,000,000 |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |
Interest rate stated in the debt agreement (as a percent) |  |  | 7.375% |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |
7.375% Debentures | Unsecured Debt |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |
Debt Instrument [Line Items] |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |
Long term debt | $ 107,000,000 |  |  |  | $ 107,000,000 | 111,000,000 |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |
Interest rate stated in the debt agreement (as a percent) | 7.375% |  |  |  | 7.375% |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |
1.25% Convertible Notes |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |
Debt Instrument [Line Items] |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |
Conversion ratio (in shares) | 0.0273384 | 0.0259909 |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |
Initial conversion price (in USD per share) | $ / shares |  | $ 38.48 |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |
If-converted value exceeded principal amount |  |  |  |  | $ 130,000,000 |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |
1.25% Convertible Notes | Convertible Notes |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |
Debt Instrument [Line Items] |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |
Long term debt | $ 1,611,000,000 |  |  |  | $ 1,611,000,000 | $ 1,611,000,000 |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |
Face amount of debt |  | $ 2,300,000,000 |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |
Interest rate stated in the debt agreement (as a percent) | 1.25% | 1.25% |  |  | 1.25% |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |
Amended 364-Day Term Loan Credit Facility |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |
Debt Instrument [Line Items] |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |
Interest rate stated in the debt agreement (as a percent) | 1.00% |  |  |  | 1.00% |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |
Amended 364-Day Term Loan Credit Facility | Minimum |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |
Debt Instrument [Line Items] |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |
Interest rate stated in the debt agreement (as a percent) | 1.00% |  |  |  | 1.00% |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |
Amended 364-Day Term Loan Credit Facility | Secured Overnight Financing Rate (SOFR) |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |
Debt Instrument [Line Items] |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |
Interest rate stated in the debt agreement (as a percent) | 0.10% |  |  |  | 0.10% |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |
Amended 364-Day Term Loan Credit Facility | New York Fed Bank Rate |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |
Debt Instrument [Line Items] |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |
Interest rate stated in the debt agreement (as a percent) | 0.50% |  |  |  | 0.50% |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |
Amended 364-Day Term Loan Credit Facility | Base Rate | Minimum |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |
Debt Instrument [Line Items] |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |
Interest rate stated in the debt agreement (as a percent) | 1.00% |  |  |  | 1.00% |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |

X
- Definition Payroll Support Program, Warrants Repurchased + References No definition available. + Details
Name: | luv_PayrollSupportProgramWarrantsRepurchased
Namespace Prefix: | luv_
Data Type: | xbrli:monetaryItemType
Balance Type: | credit
Period Type: | duration

X
- Definition Required Minimum Liquidity Level at All Times After March 31, 2021 + References No definition available. + Details
Name: | luv_RequiredMinimumLiquidityLevelatAllTimesAfterMarch312021
Namespace Prefix: | luv_
Data Type: | xbrli:monetaryItemType
Balance Type: | debit
Period Type: | instant

X
- Definition Percentage points added to the reference rate to compute the variable rate on the debt instrument. + References No definition available. + Details
Name: | us-gaap_DebtInstrumentBasisSpreadOnVariableRate1
Namespace Prefix: | us-gaap_
Data Type: | dtr-types:percentItemType
Balance Type: | na
Period Type: | duration

X
- Definition Amount, before unamortized (discount) premium and debt issuance costs, of long-term debt. Includes, but is not limited to, notes payable, bonds payable, commercial loans, mortgage loans, convertible debt, subordinated debt and other types of debt. + References Reference 1: http://fasb.org/us-gaap/role/ref/legacyRef -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Section S99 -Paragraph 1 -Subparagraph (SX 210.5-02(22)) -SubTopic 10 -Topic 210 -Publisher FASB -URI https://asc.fasb.org/1943274/2147480566/210-10-S99-1 Reference 2: http://fasb.org/us-gaap/role/ref/legacyRef -Topic 942 -SubTopic 210 -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Section S99 -Paragraph 1 -Subparagraph (SX 210.9-03(16)) -Publisher FASB -URI https://asc.fasb.org/1943274/2147478546/942-210-S99-1 Reference 3: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/disclosureRef -Topic 470 -SubTopic 20 -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Section 50 -Paragraph 4 -Subparagraph (b)(1) -Publisher FASB -URI https://asc.fasb.org/1943274/2147481139/470-20-50-4 + Details
Name: | us-gaap_DebtInstrumentCarryingAmount
Namespace Prefix: | us-gaap_
Data Type: | xbrli:monetaryItemType
Balance Type: | credit
Period Type: | instant

X
- Definition Amount of assets pledged to secure a debt instrument. + References Reference 1: http://fasb.org/us-gaap/role/ref/legacyRef -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Topic 942 -SubTopic 470 -Section 50 -Paragraph 3 -Subparagraph (d) -Publisher FASB -URI https://asc.fasb.org/1943274/2147477734/942-470-50-3 + Details
Name: | us-gaap_DebtInstrumentCollateralAmount
Namespace Prefix: | us-gaap_
Data Type: | xbrli:monetaryItemType
Balance Type: | debit
Period Type: | instant

X
- Definition The price per share of the conversion feature embedded in the debt instrument. + References Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/disclosureRef -Topic 470 -SubTopic 20 -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Section 50 -Paragraph 1B -Subparagraph (c) -Publisher FASB -URI https://asc.fasb.org/1943274/2147481139/470-20-50-1B Reference 2: http://fasb.org/us-gaap/role/ref/legacyRef -Topic 470 -SubTopic 20 -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Section 50 -Paragraph 5 -Subparagraph (b) -Publisher FASB -URI https://asc.fasb.org/1943274/2147481139/470-20-50-5 + Details
Name: | us-gaap_DebtInstrumentConvertibleConversionPrice1
Namespace Prefix: | us-gaap_
Data Type: | dtr-types:perShareItemType
Balance Type: | na
Period Type: | instant

X
- Definition Ratio applied to the conversion of debt instrument into equity with equity shares divided by debt principal amount. + References Reference 1: http://fasb.org/us-gaap/role/ref/legacyRef -Topic 210 -SubTopic 10 -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Section S99 -Paragraph 1 -Subparagraph (SX 210.5-02(22)(a)(5)) -Publisher FASB -URI https://asc.fasb.org/1943274/2147480566/210-10-S99-1 Reference 2: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/disclosureRef -Topic 470 -SubTopic 20 -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Section 50 -Paragraph 1B -Subparagraph (c) -Publisher FASB -URI https://asc.fasb.org/1943274/2147481139/470-20-50-1B Reference 3: http://fasb.org/us-gaap/role/ref/legacyRef -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Topic 505 -SubTopic 10 -Section 50 -Paragraph 3 -Publisher FASB -URI https://asc.fasb.org/1943274/2147481112/505-10-50-3 Reference 4: http://fasb.org/us-gaap/role/ref/legacyRef -Topic 505 -SubTopic 10 -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Section 50 -Paragraph 7 -Publisher FASB -URI https://asc.fasb.org/1943274/2147481112/505-10-50-7 Reference 5: http://fasb.org/us-gaap/role/ref/legacyRef -Topic 505 -SubTopic 10 -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Section 50 -Paragraph 6 -Subparagraph (b) -Publisher FASB -URI https://asc.fasb.org/1943274/2147481112/505-10-50-6 + Details
Name: | us-gaap_DebtInstrumentConvertibleConversionRatio1
Namespace Prefix: | us-gaap_
Data Type: | xbrli:pureItemType
Balance Type: | na
Period Type: | duration

X
- Definition The amount by which the convertible debt's if-converted value exceeds its principle amount at the balance sheet date, regardless of whether the instrument is currently convertible. This element applies to public companies only. + References Reference 1: http://fasb.org/us-gaap/role/ref/legacyRef -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Topic 470 -SubTopic 20 -Section 50 -Paragraph 5 -Subparagraph (c) -Publisher FASB -URI https://asc.fasb.org/1943274/2147481139/470-20-50-5 + Details
Name: | us-gaap_DebtInstrumentConvertibleIfConvertedValueInExcessOfPrincipal
Namespace Prefix: | us-gaap_
Data Type: | xbrli:monetaryItemType
Balance Type: | credit
Period Type: | duration

X
- Definition Face (par) amount of debt instrument at time of issuance. + References Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/exampleRef -Topic 835 -SubTopic 30 -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Section 55 -Paragraph 8 -Publisher FASB -URI https://asc.fasb.org/1943274/2147482949/835-30-55-8 Reference 2: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/disclosureRef -Topic 470 -SubTopic 20 -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Section 50 -Paragraph 1B -Subparagraph (a) -Publisher FASB -URI https://asc.fasb.org/1943274/2147481139/470-20-50-1B Reference 3: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/exampleRef -Topic 470 -SubTopic 20 -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Section 55 -Paragraph 69B -Publisher FASB -URI https://asc.fasb.org/1943274/2147481568/470-20-55-69B Reference 4: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/exampleRef -Topic 470 -SubTopic 20 -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Section 55 -Paragraph 69C -Publisher FASB -URI https://asc.fasb.org/1943274/2147481568/470-20-55-69C Reference 5: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/disclosureRef -Topic 835 -SubTopic 30 -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Section 50 -Paragraph 1 -Publisher FASB -URI https://asc.fasb.org/1943274/2147482900/835-30-50-1 Reference 6: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/disclosureRef -Topic 835 -SubTopic 30 -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Section 45 -Paragraph 2 -Publisher FASB -URI https://asc.fasb.org/1943274/2147482925/835-30-45-2 + Details
Name: | us-gaap_DebtInstrumentFaceAmount
Namespace Prefix: | us-gaap_
Data Type: | xbrli:monetaryItemType
Balance Type: | credit
Period Type: | instant

X
- Definition Effective interest rate for the funds borrowed under the debt agreement considering interest compounding and original issue discount or premium. + References Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/exampleRef -Topic 835 -SubTopic 30 -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Section 55 -Paragraph 8 -Publisher FASB -URI https://asc.fasb.org/1943274/2147482949/835-30-55-8 Reference 2: http://fasb.org/us-gaap/role/ref/legacyRef -Topic 210 -SubTopic 10 -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Section S99 -Paragraph 1 -Subparagraph (SX 210.5-02(22)(a)(1)) -Publisher FASB -URI https://asc.fasb.org/1943274/2147480566/210-10-S99-1 Reference 3: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/disclosureRef -Topic 835 -SubTopic 30 -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Section 50 -Paragraph 1 -Publisher FASB -URI https://asc.fasb.org/1943274/2147482900/835-30-50-1 Reference 4: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/disclosureRef -Topic 835 -SubTopic 30 -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Section 45 -Paragraph 2 -Publisher FASB -URI https://asc.fasb.org/1943274/2147482925/835-30-45-2 Reference 5: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/disclosureRef -Topic 470 -SubTopic 20 -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Section 50 -Paragraph 6 -Subparagraph (a) -Publisher FASB -URI https://asc.fasb.org/1943274/2147481139/470-20-50-6 + Details
Name: | us-gaap_DebtInstrumentInterestRateEffectivePercentage
Namespace Prefix: | us-gaap_
Data Type: | dtr-types:percentItemType
Balance Type: | na
Period Type: | instant

X
- Definition Contractual interest rate for funds borrowed, under the debt agreement. + References Reference 1: http://fasb.org/us-gaap/role/ref/legacyRef -Topic 210 -SubTopic 10 -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Section S99 -Paragraph 1 -Subparagraph (SX 210.5-02(22)(a)(1)) -Publisher FASB -URI https://asc.fasb.org/1943274/2147480566/210-10-S99-1 Reference 2: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/disclosureRef -Topic 470 -SubTopic 20 -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Section 50 -Paragraph 1B -Subparagraph (b) -Publisher FASB -URI https://asc.fasb.org/1943274/2147481139/470-20-50-1B + Details
Name: | us-gaap_DebtInstrumentInterestRateStatedPercentage
Namespace Prefix: | us-gaap_
Data Type: | dtr-types:percentItemType
Balance Type: | na
Period Type: | instant

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 Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/exampleRef -Topic 835 -SubTopic 30 -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Section 55 -Paragraph 8 -Publisher FASB -URI https://asc.fasb.org/1943274/2147482949/835-30-55-8 Reference 2: http://www.xbrl.org/2009/role/commonPracticeRef -Topic 235 -SubTopic 10 -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Section S99 -Paragraph 1 -Subparagraph (SX 210.4-08(f)) -Publisher FASB -URI https://asc.fasb.org/1943274/2147480678/235-10-S99-1 Reference 3: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/disclosureRef -Topic 235 -SubTopic 10 -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Section S99 -Paragraph 3 -Subparagraph (SX 210.12-04(a)) -Publisher FASB -URI https://asc.fasb.org/1943274/2147480678/235-10-S99-3 Reference 4: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/disclosureRef -Topic 470 -SubTopic 20 -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Section 50 -Paragraph 1B -Subparagraph (a) -Publisher FASB -URI https://asc.fasb.org/1943274/2147481139/470-20-50-1B Reference 5: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/exampleRef -Topic 470 -SubTopic 20 -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Section 55 -Paragraph 69B -Publisher FASB -URI https://asc.fasb.org/1943274/2147481568/470-20-55-69B Reference 6: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/exampleRef -Topic 470 -SubTopic 20 -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Section 55 -Paragraph 69C -Publisher FASB -URI https://asc.fasb.org/1943274/2147481568/470-20-55-69C Reference 7: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/exampleRef -Topic 470 -SubTopic 20 -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Section 55 -Paragraph 69E -Publisher FASB -URI https://asc.fasb.org/1943274/2147481568/470-20-55-69E Reference 8: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/exampleRef -Topic 470 -SubTopic 20 -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Section 55 -Paragraph 69F -Publisher FASB -URI https://asc.fasb.org/1943274/2147481568/470-20-55-69F Reference 9: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/disclosureRef -Topic 470 -SubTopic 20 -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Section 50 -Paragraph 1B -Subparagraph (b) -Publisher FASB -URI https://asc.fasb.org/1943274/2147481139/470-20-50-1B Reference 10: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/disclosureRef -Topic 470 -SubTopic 20 -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Section 50 -Paragraph 1B -Subparagraph (c) -Publisher FASB -URI https://asc.fasb.org/1943274/2147481139/470-20-50-1B Reference 11: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/exampleRef -Topic 470 -SubTopic 20 -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Section 50 -Paragraph 1B -Subparagraph (d) -Publisher FASB -URI https://asc.fasb.org/1943274/2147481139/470-20-50-1B Reference 12: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/disclosureRef -Topic 470 -SubTopic 20 -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Section 50 -Paragraph 1B -Subparagraph (e) -Publisher FASB -URI https://asc.fasb.org/1943274/2147481139/470-20-50-1B Reference 13: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/disclosureRef -Topic 470 -SubTopic 20 -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Section 50 -Paragraph 1B -Subparagraph (f) -Publisher FASB -URI https://asc.fasb.org/1943274/2147481139/470-20-50-1B Reference 14: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/disclosureRef -Topic 470 -SubTopic 20 -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Section 50 -Paragraph 1B -Subparagraph (h) -Publisher FASB -URI https://asc.fasb.org/1943274/2147481139/470-20-50-1B Reference 15: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/disclosureRef -Topic 470 -SubTopic 20 -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Section 50 -Paragraph 1D -Subparagraph (a) -Publisher FASB -URI https://asc.fasb.org/1943274/2147481139/470-20-50-1D Reference 16: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/disclosureRef -Topic 470 -SubTopic 20 -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Section 50 -Paragraph 1D -Subparagraph (b) -Publisher FASB -URI https://asc.fasb.org/1943274/2147481139/470-20-50-1D Reference 17: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/disclosureRef -Topic 470 -SubTopic 20 -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Section 50 -Paragraph 1D -Subparagraph (c) -Publisher FASB -URI https://asc.fasb.org/1943274/2147481139/470-20-50-1D Reference 18: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/disclosureRef -Topic 470 -SubTopic 20 -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Section 50 -Paragraph 1E -Subparagraph (a) -Publisher FASB -URI https://asc.fasb.org/1943274/2147481139/470-20-50-1E Reference 19: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/disclosureRef -Topic 470 -SubTopic 20 -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Section 50 -Paragraph 1E -Subparagraph (c) -Publisher FASB -URI https://asc.fasb.org/1943274/2147481139/470-20-50-1E Reference 20: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/disclosureRef -Topic 470 -SubTopic 20 -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Section 50 -Paragraph 1E -Subparagraph (d) -Publisher FASB -URI https://asc.fasb.org/1943274/2147481139/470-20-50-1E Reference 21: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/disclosureRef -Topic 470 -SubTopic 20 -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Section 50 -Paragraph 1F -Subparagraph (a) -Publisher FASB -URI https://asc.fasb.org/1943274/2147481139/470-20-50-1F Reference 22: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/disclosureRef -Topic 470 -SubTopic 20 -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Section 50 -Paragraph 1F -Subparagraph (b) -Publisher FASB -URI https://asc.fasb.org/1943274/2147481139/470-20-50-1F Reference 23: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/disclosureRef -Topic 470 -SubTopic 20 -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Section 50 -Paragraph 1F -Subparagraph (b)(1) -Publisher FASB -URI https://asc.fasb.org/1943274/2147481139/470-20-50-1F Reference 24: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/disclosureRef -Topic 470 -SubTopic 20 -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Section 50 -Paragraph 1F -Subparagraph (b)(2) -Publisher FASB -URI https://asc.fasb.org/1943274/2147481139/470-20-50-1F Reference 25: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/disclosureRef -Topic 470 -SubTopic 20 -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Section 50 -Paragraph 1I -Subparagraph (c) -Publisher FASB -URI https://asc.fasb.org/1943274/2147481139/470-20-50-1I Reference 26: http://www.xbrl.org/2009/role/commonPracticeRef -Topic 835 -SubTopic 30 -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Section 45 -Paragraph 2 -Publisher FASB -URI https://asc.fasb.org/1943274/2147482925/835-30-45-2 Reference 27: http://www.xbrl.org/2009/role/commonPracticeRef -Topic 835 -SubTopic 30 -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Section 50 -Paragraph 1 -Publisher FASB -URI https://asc.fasb.org/1943274/2147482900/835-30-50-1 + Details
Name: | us-gaap_DebtInstrumentLineItems
Namespace Prefix: | us-gaap_
Data Type: | xbrli:stringItemType
Balance Type: | na
Period Type: | duration

X
- Definition Period of time between issuance and maturity of debt instrument, in PnYnMnDTnHnMnS' format, for example, 'P1Y5M13D' represents the reported fact of one year, five months, and thirteen days. + References No definition available. + Details
Name: | us-gaap_DebtInstrumentTerm
Namespace Prefix: | us-gaap_
Data Type: | xbrli:durationItemType
Balance Type: | na
Period Type: | duration

X
- Definition The total amount of the contingent obligation under letters of credit outstanding as of the reporting date. + References No definition available. + Details
Name: | us-gaap_LettersOfCreditOutstandingAmount
Namespace Prefix: | us-gaap_
Data Type: | xbrli:monetaryItemType
Balance Type: | credit
Period Type: | instant

X
- Definition Fair value of the amount outstanding under the credit facility. + References Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/disclosureRef -Topic 825 -SubTopic 10 -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Section 50 -Paragraph 10 -Publisher FASB -URI https://asc.fasb.org/1943274/2147482907/825-10-50-10 + Details
Name: | us-gaap_LineOfCreditFacilityFairValueOfAmountOutstanding
Namespace Prefix: | us-gaap_
Data Type: | xbrli:monetaryItemType
Balance Type: | credit
Period Type: | instant

X
- Definition Maximum borrowing capacity under the credit facility without consideration of any current restrictions on the amount that could be borrowed or the amounts currently outstanding under the facility. + References Reference 1: http://fasb.org/us-gaap/role/ref/legacyRef -Topic 210 -SubTopic 10 -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Section S99 -Paragraph 1 -Subparagraph (SX 210.5-02(22)(b)) -Publisher FASB -URI https://asc.fasb.org/1943274/2147480566/210-10-S99-1 Reference 2: http://fasb.org/us-gaap/role/ref/legacyRef -Topic 210 -SubTopic 10 -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Section S99 -Paragraph 1 -Subparagraph (SX 210.5-02(19)(b)) -Publisher FASB -URI https://asc.fasb.org/1943274/2147480566/210-10-S99-1 + Details
Name: | us-gaap_LineOfCreditFacilityMaximumBorrowingCapacity
Namespace Prefix: | us-gaap_
Data Type: | xbrli:monetaryItemType
Balance Type: | credit
Period Type: | instant

X
- Definition Amount, after deduction of unamortized premium (discount) and debt issuance cost, of long-term debt. Excludes lease obligation. + References Reference 1: http://fasb.org/us-gaap/role/ref/legacyRef -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Section S99 -Paragraph 1 -Subparagraph (SX 210.5-02(22)) -SubTopic 10 -Topic 210 -Publisher FASB -URI https://asc.fasb.org/1943274/2147480566/210-10-S99-1 Reference 2: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/exampleRef -Topic 835 -SubTopic 30 -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Section 55 -Paragraph 8 -Publisher FASB -URI https://asc.fasb.org/1943274/2147482949/835-30-55-8 Reference 3: http://fasb.org/us-gaap/role/ref/legacyRef -Topic 942 -SubTopic 210 -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Section S99 -Paragraph 1 -Subparagraph (SX 210.9-03(16)) -Publisher FASB -URI https://asc.fasb.org/1943274/2147478546/942-210-S99-1 Reference 4: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/exampleRef -Topic 470 -SubTopic 20 -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Section 55 -Paragraph 69B -Publisher FASB -URI https://asc.fasb.org/1943274/2147481568/470-20-55-69B Reference 5: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/exampleRef -Topic 470 -SubTopic 20 -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Section 55 -Paragraph 69C -Publisher FASB -URI https://asc.fasb.org/1943274/2147481568/470-20-55-69C Reference 6: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/disclosureRef -Topic 470 -SubTopic 20 -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Section 50 -Paragraph 1D -Subparagraph (b) -Publisher FASB -URI https://asc.fasb.org/1943274/2147481139/470-20-50-1D Reference 7: http://www.xbrl.org/2009/role/commonPracticeRef -Topic 944 -SubTopic 210 -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Section S99 -Paragraph 1 -Subparagraph (SX 210.7-03(a)(16)(a)(2)) -Publisher FASB -URI https://asc.fasb.org/1943274/2147478777/944-210-S99-1 Reference 8: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/disclosureRef -Topic 470 -SubTopic 20 -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Section 50 -Paragraph 4 -Subparagraph (b)(3) -Publisher FASB -URI https://asc.fasb.org/1943274/2147481139/470-20-50-4 + Details
Name: | us-gaap_LongTermDebt
Namespace Prefix: | us-gaap_
Data Type: | xbrli:monetaryItemType
Balance Type: | credit
Period Type: | instant

X
- Definition Amount of cash outflow for cost from early extinguishment and prepayment of debt. Includes, but is not limited to, third-party cost, premium paid, and other fee paid to lender directly for debt extinguishment or debt prepayment. Excludes accrued interest. + References Reference 1: http://fasb.org/us-gaap/role/ref/legacyRef -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Section 45 -Paragraph 15 -Subparagraph (g) -SubTopic 10 -Topic 230 -Publisher FASB -URI https://asc.fasb.org/1943274/2147482740/230-10-45-15 + Details
Name: | us-gaap_PaymentsOfDebtExtinguishmentCosts
Namespace Prefix: | us-gaap_
Data Type: | xbrli:monetaryItemType
Balance Type: | credit
Period Type: | duration

X
- Definition Amount of equity (deficit) attributable to parent. Excludes temporary equity and equity attributable to noncontrolling interest. + References Reference 1: http://fasb.org/us-gaap/role/ref/legacyRef -Topic 210 -SubTopic 10 -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Section S99 -Paragraph 1 -Subparagraph (SX 210.5-02(29)) -Publisher FASB -URI https://asc.fasb.org/1943274/2147480566/210-10-S99-1 Reference 2: http://fasb.org/us-gaap/role/ref/legacyRef -Topic 210 -SubTopic 10 -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Section S99 -Paragraph 1 -Subparagraph (SX 210.5-02(30)) -Publisher FASB -URI https://asc.fasb.org/1943274/2147480566/210-10-S99-1 Reference 3: http://fasb.org/us-gaap/role/ref/legacyRef -Topic 210 -SubTopic 10 -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Section S99 -Paragraph 1 -Subparagraph (SX 210.5-02(31)) -Publisher FASB -URI https://asc.fasb.org/1943274/2147480566/210-10-S99-1 Reference 4: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/exampleRef -Topic 852 -SubTopic 10 -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Section 55 -Paragraph 10 -Publisher FASB -URI https://asc.fasb.org/1943274/2147481372/852-10-55-10 Reference 5: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/exampleRef -Topic 946 -SubTopic 830 -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Section 55 -Paragraph 12 -Publisher FASB -URI https://asc.fasb.org/1943274/2147479168/946-830-55-12 Reference 6: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/disclosureRef -Topic 946 -SubTopic 210 -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Section S99 -Paragraph 1 -Subparagraph (SX 210.6-04(19)) -Publisher FASB -URI https://asc.fasb.org/1943274/2147479170/946-210-S99-1 Reference 7: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/disclosureRef -Topic 946 -SubTopic 210 -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Section S99 -Paragraph 2 -Subparagraph (SX 210.6-05(4)) -Publisher FASB -URI https://asc.fasb.org/1943274/2147479170/946-210-S99-2 Reference 8: http://www.xbrl.org/2009/role/commonPracticeRef -Topic 946 -SubTopic 220 -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Section S99 -Paragraph 3 -Subparagraph (SX 210.6-09(4)(b)) -Publisher FASB -URI https://asc.fasb.org/1943274/2147479134/946-220-S99-3 Reference 9: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/disclosureRef -Topic 946 -SubTopic 220 -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Section S99 -Paragraph 3 -Subparagraph (SX 210.6-09(6)) -Publisher FASB -URI https://asc.fasb.org/1943274/2147479134/946-220-S99-3 Reference 10: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/disclosureRef -Topic 946 -SubTopic 220 -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Section S99 -Paragraph 3 -Subparagraph (SX 210.6-09(7)) -Publisher FASB -URI https://asc.fasb.org/1943274/2147479134/946-220-S99-3 Reference 11: http://www.xbrl.org/2009/role/commonPracticeRef -Topic 235 -SubTopic 10 -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Section S99 -Paragraph 1 -Subparagraph (SX 210.4-08(g)(1)(ii)) -Publisher FASB -URI https://asc.fasb.org/1943274/2147480678/235-10-S99-1 Reference 12: http://www.xbrl.org/2009/role/commonPracticeRef -Topic 323 -SubTopic 10 -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Section 50 -Paragraph 3 -Subparagraph (c) -Publisher FASB -URI https://asc.fasb.org/1943274/2147481687/323-10-50-3 Reference 13: http://www.xbrl.org/2009/role/commonPracticeRef -Topic 825 -SubTopic 10 -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Section 50 -Paragraph 28 -Subparagraph (f) -Publisher FASB -URI https://asc.fasb.org/1943274/2147482907/825-10-50-28 Reference 14: http://fasb.org/us-gaap/role/ref/legacyRef -Topic 310 -SubTopic 10 -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Section S99 -Paragraph 2 -Subparagraph (SAB Topic 4.E) -Publisher FASB -URI https://asc.fasb.org/1943274/2147480418/310-10-S99-2 + Details
Name: | us-gaap_StockholdersEquity
Namespace Prefix: | us-gaap_
Data Type: | xbrli:monetaryItemType
Balance Type: | credit
Period Type: | instant

X
- Details
Name: | us-gaap_CreditFacilityAxis=us-gaap_RevolvingCreditFacilityMember
Namespace Prefix: |
Data Type: | na
Balance Type: |
Period Type: |

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

X
- Details
Name: | us-gaap_AdjustmentsForNewAccountingPronouncementsAxis=us-gaap_AccountingStandardsUpdate202006Member
Namespace Prefix: |
Data Type: | na
Balance Type: |
Period Type: |

X
- Details
Name: | us-gaap_LongtermDebtTypeAxis=us-gaap_LineOfCreditMember
Namespace Prefix: |
Data Type: | na
Balance Type: |
Period Type: |

X
- Details
Name: | us-gaap_DebtInstrumentAxis=luv_Total5125NotesDue2027Member
Namespace Prefix: |
Data Type: | na
Balance Type: |
Period Type: |

X
- Details
Name: | us-gaap_LongtermDebtTypeAxis=us-gaap_UnsecuredDebtMember
Namespace Prefix: |
Data Type: | na
Balance Type: |
Period Type: |

X
- Details
Name: | us-gaap_DebtInstrumentAxis=luv_A5125UnsecuredNotesDue2027Member
Namespace Prefix: |
Data Type: | na
Balance Type: |
Period Type: |

X
- Details
Name: | us-gaap_DebtInstrumentAxis=luv_A5125NotesDue2027Member
Namespace Prefix: |
Data Type: | na
Balance Type: |
Period Type: |

X
- Details
Name: | us-gaap_DebtInstrumentAxis=luv_A5250UnsecuredNotesDue2025Member
Namespace Prefix: |
Data Type: | na
Balance Type: |
Period Type: |

X
- Details
Name: | us-gaap_DebtInstrumentAxis=luv_A2.625UnsecuredSeniorNotesDue2030Member
Namespace Prefix: |
Data Type: | na
Balance Type: |
Period Type: |

X
- Details
Name: | us-gaap_DebtInstrumentAxis=luv_UnsecuredSeniorNotesDue2027Member
Namespace Prefix: |
Data Type: | na
Balance Type: |
Period Type: |

X
- Details
Name: | us-gaap_VariableRateAxis=luv_TreasuryRateMember
Namespace Prefix: |
Data Type: | na
Balance Type: |
Period Type: |

X
- Details
Name: | us-gaap_DebtInstrumentAxis=luv_A3.00SeniorNotesDue2026Member
Namespace Prefix: |
Data Type: | na
Balance Type: |
Period Type: |

X
- Details
Name: | us-gaap_DebtInstrumentAxis=luv_A7.375DebenturesDue2027Member
Namespace Prefix: |
Data Type: | na
Balance Type: |
Period Type: |

X
- Details
Name: | us-gaap_DebtInstrumentAxis=luv_A1250ConvertibleSeniorNotesDue2025Member
Namespace Prefix: |
Data Type: | na
Balance Type: |
Period Type: |

X
- Details
Name: | us-gaap_DebtInstrumentAxis=luv_Amended364DayTermLoanCreditFacilityMember
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_VariableRateAxis=us-gaap_SecuredOvernightFinancingRateSofrMember
Namespace Prefix: |
Data Type: | na
Balance Type: |
Period Type: |

X
- Details
Name: | us-gaap_VariableRateAxis=luv_NewYorkFedBankRateMember
Namespace Prefix: |
Data Type: | na
Balance Type: |
Period Type: |

X
- Details
Name: | us-gaap_VariableRateAxis=us-gaap_BaseRateMember
Namespace Prefix: |
Data Type: | na
Balance Type: |
Period Type: |