Organization, Consolidation and Presentation of Financial Statements [Abstract]
Schedule of Business Acquisitions, by Acquisition [Table]
Schedule of Business Acquisitions, by Acquisition [Table]
Business Acquisition [Axis]
Business Acquisition [Axis]
Business Acquisition, Acquiree [Domain]
Business Acquisition, Acquiree [Domain]
Northern Sante Fe Corporation
Northern Sante Fe Corporation [Member]
Northern Sante Fe Corporation [Member]
Business Acquisition [Line Items]
Business Acquisition [Line Items]
Acquired remaining outstanding shares, percentage
Business Combination, Step Acquisition, Remaining Equity Interest Acquired, Percentage
In a business combination achieved in stages, this element represents the percentage aquired of the remaining equity interest in the acquiree not already owned.
Debt Disclosure [Abstract]
Schedule of Guarantor Obligations [Table]
Schedule of Guarantor Obligations [Table]
Guarantee Entity Name [Axis]
Guarantee Entity Name [Axis]
Guarantee Entity Name [Axis]
Guarantee Entity Name [Domain]
Guarantee Entity Name [Domain]
Guarantee Entity Name [Domain]
Kinder Morgan Energy Partners, L.P.
Kinder Morgan Energy Partners, L.P. [Member]
Kinder Morgan Energy Partners, L.P. [Member]
Chevron Phillips Chemical Company, LP
Chevron Phillips Chemical Company, LP [Member]
Chevron Phillips Chemical Company, LP [Member]
All Other Guarantee Entities
All Other Guarantee Entities [Member]
All Other Guarantee Entities [Member]
Guarantor Obligations, Nature [Axis]
Guarantor Obligations, Nature [Axis]
Guarantor Obligations, Nature [Domain]
Guarantor Obligations, Nature [Domain]
Payment Guarantee
Payment Guarantee [Member]
Indemnification Agreement
Indemnification Agreement [Member]
Guarantor Obligations [Line Items]
Guarantor Obligations [Line Items]
BNSF Ownership Percentage
Noncontrolling Interest, Ownership Percentage by Parent
Principal Amount Guaranteed
Principal Amount Guaranteed
Principal Amount Guaranteed
Maximum Future Payments
Guarantor Obligations, Maximum Exposure, Undiscounted
Maximum Recourse Amount
Maximum Recourse Amount
Maximum Recourse Amount
Remaining Term (in years)
Remaining Term
Remaining Term
Capitalized Obligations
Guarantor Obligations, Current Carrying Value
Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities Disclosure [Abstract]
Schedule of Derivative Instruments in Statement of Financial Position, Fair Value
Schedule of Derivative Instruments in Statement of Financial Position, Fair Value [Table Text Block]
Schedule of Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) in Statement of Financial Performance
Schedule of Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) in Statement of Financial Performance [Table Text Block]
Commitments and Contingencies Disclosure [Abstract]
Schedule of Loss Contingencies by Contingency
Schedule of Loss Contingencies by Contingency [Table Text Block]
Accrued Obligations for Environmental Matters
Accrual for Environmental Loss Contingencies [Table Text Block]
Accrual for Environmental Loss Contingencies [Table Text Block]
Fuel
Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities Disclosure [Text Block]
Statement of Cash Flows [Abstract]
Statement [Table]
Statement [Table]
Scenario [Axis]
Scenario [Axis]
Scenario, Unspecified [Domain]
Scenario, Unspecified [Domain]
Successor
Successor [Member]
Predecessor
Predecessor [Member]
Statement [Line Items]
Statement [Line Items]
OPERATING ACTIVITIES
Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Operating Activities [Abstract]
Net income
Net Income (Loss) Attributable to Parent
Adjustments to reconcile net income to net cash provided by operating activities:
Adjustments, Noncash Items, to Reconcile Net Income (Loss) to Cash Provided by (Used in) Operating Activities [Abstract]
Depreciation and amortization
Depreciation, Depletion and Amortization
Deferred income taxes
Deferred Income Tax Expense (Benefit)
Long-term casualty and environmental liabilities, net
Long term casualty and environmental liabilities, net
The net change during the reporting period in the amount of noncurrent costs accrued for casualty, environmental and other loss contingencies.
Contribution to defined benefit pension plan
Pension Contributions
Other, net
Other Operating Activities, Cash Flow Statement
Changes in current assets and liabilities:
Increase (Decrease) in Operating Capital [Abstract]
Accounts receivable, net
Increase (Decrease) in Accounts Receivable
Materials and supplies
Increase (Decrease) in Materials and Supplies
Other current assets
Increase (Decrease) in Other Current Assets
Accounts payable and other current liabilities
Increase (Decrease) in Accounts Payable and Accrued Liabilities
Net cash provided by operating activities
Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Operating Activities
INVESTING ACTIVITIES
Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Investing Activities [Abstract]
Capital expenditures excluding equipment
Capital Expenditures Excluding Equipment
The cash outflow associated with the acquisition of long-lived, physical assets, excluding equipment, that are used in the normal conduct of business to produce goods and services and not intended for resale; includes cash outflows to pay for construction of self-constructed assets.
Acquisition of equipment
Acquisition of equipment
The cash outflow associated with the acquisition of equipment which includes locomotive, freight cars and other equipment, some or all of which may be sold and leased back by the Company through either an operating or capital lease.
Other, net
Payments for (Proceeds from) Other Investing Activities
Net cash used for investing activities
Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Investing Activities
FINANCING ACTIVITIES
Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Financing Activities [Abstract]
Proceeds from issuance of long-term debt
Proceeds from Issuance of Long-term Debt
Payments on long-term debt
Repayments of Long-term Debt
Cash distributions
Cash Distributions/ Dividends Paid
The cash outflow from the distribution of an entity's earnings in the form of dividends to common shareholders or distributions to the parent company.
Other, net
Proceeds from (Payments for) Other Financing Activities
Net cash used for financing activities
Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Financing Activities
Increase (Decrease) in cash and cash equivalents
Cash and Cash Equivalents, Period Increase (Decrease)
Cash and cash equivalents:
Cash and Cash Equivalents, at Carrying Value [Abstract]
Beginning of period
Cash and Cash Equivalents, at Carrying Value
End of period
SUPPLEMENTAL CASH FLOW INFORMATION
Supplemental Cash Flow Information [Abstract]
Interest paid, net of amounts capitalized
Interest Paid, Net
Capital investments accrued but not yet paid
Capital Expenditures Incurred but Not yet Paid
Income taxes paid, net of refunds
Income Taxes Paid, Net
Non-cash asset financing
Capital Lease Obligations Incurred
Related Party Transactions [Abstract]
Related Party Transactions
Related Party Transactions Disclosure [Text Block]
Statement of Financial Position [Abstract]
ASSETS
Assets [Abstract]
Current assets:
Assets, Current [Abstract]
Cash and cash equivalents
Accounts receivable, net
Accounts Receivable, Net, Current
Materials and supplies
Materials, Supplies, and Other
Current portion of deferred income taxes
Deferred Tax Assets, Net of Valuation Allowance, Current
Other current assets
Other Assets, Current
Total current assets
Assets, Current
Property and equipment, net of accumulated depreciation of $1,443 and $1,056, respectively
Property, Plant and Equipment, Net
Goodwill
Goodwill
Intangible assets, net
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Net
Other assets
Other Assets, Noncurrent
Total assets
Assets
LIABILITIES AND EQUITY
Liabilities and Equity [Abstract]
Current liabilities:
Liabilities, Current [Abstract]
Accounts payable and other current liabilities
Accounts Payable and Accrued Liabilities, Current
Long-term debt due within one year
Long-term Debt and Capital Lease Obligations, Current
Total current liabilities
Liabilities, Current
Deferred income taxes
Deferred Tax Liabilities, Net, Noncurrent
Long-term debt
Long-term Debt and Capital Lease Obligations
Intangible liabilities, net
Intangible liabilities, net
The aggregate sum of gross carrying value of a major finite-lived intangible liability class, less accumulated amortization and any impairment charges.
Casualty and environmental liabilities
Casualty and environmental liabilities
Noncurrent portion of costs accrued as of the balance sheet date for casualty, environmental and other loss contingencies.
Pension and retiree health and welfare liability
Pension and Other Postretirement Defined Benefit Plans, Liabilities, Noncurrent
Other liabilities
Other Liabilities, Noncurrent
Total liabilities
Liabilities
Commitments and contingencies (see Notes 2, 6 and 7)
Commitments and Contingencies
Equity:
Stockholders' Equity Attributable to Parent [Abstract]
Member's Equity
Members' Equity
Accumulated other comprehensive loss
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax
Total equity
Stockholders' Equity Attributable to Parent
Total liabilities and equity
Liabilities and Equity
Entities [Table]
Legal Entity [Axis]
Legal Entity [Axis]
Entity [Domain]
Entity [Domain]
Entity Information [Line Items]
Entity Information [Line Items]
Entity Registrant Name
Entity Registrant Name
Entity Central Index Key
Entity Central Index Key
Document Fiscal Year Focus
Document Fiscal Year Focus
Document Fiscal Period Focus
Document Fiscal Period Focus
Amendment Flag
Amendment Flag
Current Fiscal Year End Date
Current Fiscal Year End Date
Entity Well-known Seasoned Issuer
Entity Well-known Seasoned Issuer
Entity Voluntary Filers
Entity Voluntary Filers
Entity Current Reporting Status
Entity Current Reporting Status
Entity Filer Category
Entity Filer Category
Document Type
Document Type
Document Period End Date
Document Period End Date
Entity Common Stock, Shares Outstanding
Entity Common Stock, Shares Outstanding
Entity Public Float
Entity Public Float
Concentration Risk [Table]
Concentration Risk [Table]
Concentration Risk Type [Axis]
Concentration Risk Type [Axis]
Concentration Risk Type [Domain]
Concentration Risk Type [Domain]
Cost of Fuel [Member]
Cost of Fuel [Member]
Cost of Fuel [Member]
Concentration Risk Benchmark [Axis]
Concentration Risk Benchmark [Axis]
Concentration Risk Benchmark [Domain]
Concentration Risk Benchmark [Domain]
Operating Expense [Member]
Operating Expense [Member]
Concentration Risk [Line Items]
Concentration Risk [Line Items]
Fuel costs percent of total operating costs
Concentration Risk, Percentage
Percent of past three years fuel consumption covered by derivatives
Percent Of Past Three Years Fuel Consumption Covered By Derivatives
Percent Of Past Three Years Fuel Consumption Covered By Derivatives
Number of gallons of fuel covered by fuel-derivative agreements
Number of Gallons of Fuel Covered by Fuel-derivative Agreements
Number of Gallons of Fuel Covered by Fuel-derivative Agreements
Net asset exposure to counterparty credit risk
Maximum Potential Future Exposure on Credit Risk Derivatives
Income Statement [Abstract]
Revenues
Revenue, Net
Operating expenses:
Operating Expenses [Abstract]
Compensation and benefits
Labor and Related Expense
Fuel
Fuel Costs
Purchased services
Purchased services
The amount of expense for contract services provided to the Company.
Equipment rents
Equipment rents
Rent paid for freight cars owned by other railroads or private companies, net of rents received, including lease expenses primarily for locomotives, railcars, containers and trailers.
Materials and other
Materials and other
Materials and other operating expenses not separately disclosed. This element is used when other, more specific, elements are not appropriate.
Total operating expenses
Operating Expenses
Operating income
Operating Income (Loss)
Interest expense
Interest and Debt Expense
Other expense, net
Other Nonoperating Income (Expense)
Income tax expense
Income Tax Expense (Benefit)
Net income
Schedule of Related Party Transactions, by Related Party [Table]
Schedule of Related Party Transactions, by Related Party [Table]
Related Party [Axis]
Related Party [Axis]
Related Party [Domain]
Related Party [Domain]
Parent Company
Parent Company [Member]
Related Party Transaction [Line Items]
Related Party Transaction [Line Items]
Cash distributions
Tax refund from parent company
Tax Refund From Parent
Tax Refund From Parent
Tax payments to parent company
Income Tax Payments, To Parent By Reporting Entity
Income Tax Payments, To Parent By Reporting Entity
Accumulated depreciation
Accumulated Depreciation, Depletion and Amortization, Property, Plant, and Equipment
Debt
Debt Disclosure [Text Block]
Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income [Abstract]
Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income [Abstract]
Net income
Other comprehensive income:
Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax [Abstract]
Change in amortization of accumulated actuarial losses, net of tax expense of $1 million, $0 million, $3 million and $0 million, respectively
Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Reclassification, Pension and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans, Net Gain (Loss) Recognized in Net Periodic Benefit Cost, Net of Tax
Change in fuel hedge mark-to-market, net of tax benefit of $0 million, $20 million, $7 million and $21 million, respectively
Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Unrealized Gain (Loss) on Derivatives Arising During Period, Net of Tax
Change in other comprehensive income of equity method investees
Change in Other Comprehensive Income of Equity Method Investees
Change in Other Comprehensive Income of Equity Method Investees
Other comprehensive income (loss), net of tax
Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax
Total comprehensive income
Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax, Attributable to Parent
Fair Values Derivatives, Balance Sheet Location, by Derivative Contract Type [Table]
Fair Values Derivatives, Balance Sheet Location, by Derivative Contract Type [Table]
Derivative Instrument Risk [Axis]
Derivative Instrument Risk [Axis]
Derivative Contract Type [Domain]
Derivative Contract Type [Domain]
Fuel Contracts
Fuel Contracts [Member]
Fuel Contracts [Member]
Hedging Designation [Axis]
Hedging Designation [Axis]
Hedging Designation [Domain]
Hedging Designation [Domain]
Designated as Hedging Instrument
Designated as Hedging Instrument [Member]
Balance Sheet Location [Axis]
Balance Sheet Location [Axis]
Balance Sheet Location [Domain]
Balance Sheet Location [Domain]
Other Current Assets
Other Current Assets [Member]
Derivatives, Fair Value [Line Items]
Derivatives, Fair Value [Line Items]
Derivatives, net
Derivative Asset, Fair Value, Net
Derivatives, gross
Derivative Asset, Fair Value, Gross Asset
OCI Parenthetical [Abstract]
OCI Parenthetical [Abstract]
Change in amortization of accumulated actuarial losses, net of tax expense
Change In Unrecognized Prior Service Credit And Actuarial Losses Tax Benefit (Expense)
The net tax benefit (expense) resulting from the adjustment out of other comprehensive income for prior service costs and actual losses recognized as a component of net period benefit cost during the period.
Change in fuel hedge mark-to-market, net of tax expense/(benefit)
Fuel Interest Hedge Mark To Market Tax (Benefit) Expense
The net tax (benefit) expense resulting from the change in accumulated gains and losses from derivative instrument designated and qualifying as the effective portion of cash flow hedges, net of tax effect.
Schedule of Operating Leased Assets [Table]
Schedule of Operating Leased Assets [Table]
Variable Interest Entities [Axis]
Variable Interest Entities [Axis]
Variable Interest Entity, Classification [Domain]
Variable Interest Entity, Classification [Domain]
Variable Interest Entity, Not Primary Beneficiary
Variable Interest Entity, Not Primary Beneficiary [Member]
Parties to Contractual Arrangement [Axis]
Parties to Contractual Arrangement [Axis]
Parties to Contractual Arrangement [Domain]
Parties to Contractual Arrangement [Domain]
Reporting Entity
Reporting Entity [Member]
Property, Plant and Equipment, Type [Axis]
Property, Plant and Equipment, Type [Axis]
Property, Plant and Equipment, Type [Domain]
Property, Plant and Equipment, Type [Domain]
Equipment
Equipment [Member]
Operating Leased Assets [Line Items]
Operating Leased Assets [Line Items]
Future minimum lease payments
Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments Due
Loss Contingencies [Table]
Loss Contingencies [Table]
Current Liabilities [Member]
Current Liabilities [Member]
Current Liabilities [Member]
Cash and Cash Equivalents [Axis]
Cash and Cash Equivalents [Axis]
Cash and Cash Equivalents [Domain]
Cash and Cash Equivalents [Domain]
Cash Equivalents
Cash Equivalents [Member]
Commercial Paper, Bank Time Deposits, and Money Market Funds
Commercial Paper, Bank Time Deposits, and Money Market Funds [Member]
Commercial Paper, Bank Time Deposits, and Money Market Funds [Member]
Subsidiaries
Subsidiaries [Member]
BNSF Insurance Company
BNSF Insurance Company [Member]
BNSF Insurance Company [Member]
Loss Contingency Nature [Axis]
Loss Contingency Nature [Axis]
Loss Contingency, Nature [Domain]
Loss Contingency, Nature [Domain]
Unasserted Claim
Unasserted Claim [Member]
Personal Injury
Personal Injury [Member]
Personal Injury [Member]
Loss Contingencies [Line Items]
Loss Contingencies [Line Items]
Asbestos and Personal Injury [Abstract]
Loss Contingency, Estimate [Abstract]
Reduction in expense due to settlements of personal injury liabiltiies
Reduction in expense due to settlements of personal injury liabiltiies
Reduction in expense due to settlements of personal injury liabiltiies
Percent of future unasserted asbestos claims to be filed within the next ten years
Percent of Future Unasserted Asbestos Claims To be Filed Within the Next Ten Years
Percent of Future Unasserted Asbestos Claims To be Filed Within the Next Ten Years
Percent of future unasserted asbestos claims to be filed within the next fifteen years
Percent of Future Unasserted Asbestos Claims to be Filed Within the Next Fifteen Years
Percent of Future Unasserted Asbestos Claims to be Filed Within the Next Fifteen Years
Percent of future unasserted asbestos claims to be filed within the next twenty-five years
Percent of Future Unasserted Asbestos Claims to be Filed Within the Next Twenty-five Years
Percent of Future Unasserted Asbestos Claims to be Filed Within the Next Twenty-five Years
Length in years for 60 percent of future unasserted asbestos claims to be filed
Length in Years for 60 Percent of Future Unasserted Asbestos Claims to be Filed
Length in Years for 60% of Future Unasserted Asbestos Claims to be Filed
Length in years for 80 percent of future unasserted asbestos claims to be filed
Length in Years for 80 Percent of Future Unasserted Asbestos Claims to be Filed
Length in Years for 80 Percent of Future Unasserted Asbestos Claims to be Filed
Length in years for 95 percent of future unasserted claims to be filed
Length in Years for 95 Percent of Future Unasserted Claims to be Filed
Length in Years for 95 Percent of Future Unasserted Claims to be Filed
Accrued obligations for asbestos and other personal injury matters, current liabilities
Loss Contingency, Accrual Carrying Value, Current
Future costs to settle personal injury claims, minimum
Loss Contingency, Range of Possible Loss, Minimum
Future costs to settle personal injury claims, maximum
Loss Contingency, Range of Possible Loss, Maximum
Loss Contingency Accrual [Roll Forward]
Loss Contingency Accrual [Roll Forward]
Beginning balance
Loss Contingency Accrual, at Carrying Value
Accruals
Loss Contingency Accrual, Carrying Value, Provision
Payments
Loss Contingency Accrual, Carrying Value, Payments
Ending balance
Cash and Cash Equivalents [Abstract]
Cash and Cash Equivalents [Abstract]
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Amortization Expense, Maturity Schedule [Abstract]
Schedule of Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Table]
Schedule of Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Table]
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets by Major Class [Axis]
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets by Major Class [Axis]
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Major Class Name [Domain]
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Major Class Name [Domain]
Business Segments [Axis]
Business Segments [Axis]
Segment [Domain]
Segment [Domain]
Range [Axis]
Range [Axis]
Range [Domain]
Range [Domain]
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]
Amortized intangible assets, gross carrying amount
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Gross
Amortized intangible assets, accumulated amortization
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Accumulated Amortization
Amortized intangible liabilities, gross carrying amount
Finite-Lived Intangible Liabilities, Gross
Amount before amortization of liabilities, excluding financial liabilities, lacking physical substance with a finite life.
Amortized intangible liabilities, accumulated amortization
Finite-Lived Intangible Liabilities, Accumulated Amortization
Finite-Lived Intangible Liabilities, Accumulated Amortization
Amortization of Intangible Assets
Amortization of Intangible Assets
Amortization of Intangible Liabilities
Amortization of Intangible Liabilities
Amortization of Intangible Liabilities
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Net, Amortization Expense, Fiscal Year Maturity [Abstract]
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Net, Amortization Expense, Fiscal Year Maturity [Abstract]
Amortization of intangible assets, Remainder of 2012
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Amortization Expense, Remainder of Fiscal Year
Amortization of intangible liabilities, Remainder of 2012
Finite-Lived Intangible Liabilities, Amortization Expense, Remainder of Fiscal Year
Finite-Lived Intangible Liabilities, Amortization Expense, Remainder of Fiscal Year
Amortization of intangible assets, 2013
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Amortization Expense, Year Two
Amortization of intangible liabilities, 2013
Finite-Lived Intangible Liabilities, Amortization Expense, Year Two
Finite-Lived Intangible Liabilities, Amortization Expense, Year Two
Amortization of intangible assets, 2014
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Amortization Expense, Year Three
Amortization of intangible liabilities, 2014
Finite-Lived Intangible Liabilities, Amortization Expense, Year Three
Finite-Lived Intangible Liabilities, Amortization Expense, Year Three
Amortization of intangible assets, 2015
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Amortization Expense, Year Four
Amortization of intangible liabilities, 2015
Finite-Lived Intangible Liabilities, Amortization Expense, Year Four
Finite-Lived Intangible Liabilities, Amortization Expense, Year Four
Amortization of intangible assets, 2016
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Amortization Expense, Year Five
Amortization of intangible liabilities, 2016
Finite-Lived Intangible Liabilities, Amortization Expense, Year Five
Finite-Lived Intangible Liabilities, Amortization Expense, Year Five
Compensation and Retirement Disclosure [Abstract]
Employment Benefit Plans
Pension and Other Postretirement Benefits Disclosure [Text Block]
Schedule of Guarantor Obligations
Schedule of Guarantor Obligations [Table Text Block]
New Accounting Pronouncements and Changes in Accounting Principles [Abstract]
Accounting Pronouncements
Description of New Accounting Pronouncements Not yet Adopted [Text Block]
Schedule of Variable Interest Entities
Schedule of Variable Interest Entities [Table Text Block]
Consolidated Statements of Changes in Equity [Abstract]
Consolidated Statements of Changes in Equity [Abstract]
Equity Components [Axis]
Equity Components [Axis]
Equity Component [Domain]
Equity Component [Domain]
Members Equity
Members Equity [Member]
Member's equity.
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss)
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Member]
Increase (Decrease) in Member's Equity [Roll Forward]
Increase (Decrease) In Members Equity [Roll Forward] [Roll Forward]
Increase (Decrease) In Members Equity [Roll Forward] [Roll Forward]
Balance
Cash distributions to Parent
Comprehensive income, net of tax
Balance
Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) by Hedging Relationship, by Income Statement Location, by Derivative Instrument Risk [Table]
Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) by Hedging Relationship, by Income Statement Location, by Derivative Instrument Risk [Table]
Income Statement Location [Axis]
Income Statement Location [Axis]
Income Statement Location [Domain]
Income Statement Location [Domain]
Fuel Expense
Fuel Expense [Member]
Fuel Expense [Member]
Other Comprehensive Income Location [Axis]
Other Comprehensive Income Location [Axis]
Other Comprehensive Income Location [Domain]
Other Comprehensive Income Location [Domain]
Other Comprehensive Income (Loss)
Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Member]
Hedging Relationship [Axis]
Hedging Relationship [Axis]
Hedging Relationship [Domain]
Hedging Relationship [Domain]
Cash Flow Hedging
Cash Flow Hedging [Member]
Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) [Line Items]
Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) [Line Items]
Amount of Gain or (Loss) Recognized in Other Comprehensive Income (OCI) on Derivatives (Effective Portion)
Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) Recognized in Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Effective Portion, Net
Amount of Gain or (Loss) Recognized from AOCL into Income (Effective Portion)
Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) Reclassified from Accumulated OCI into Income, Effective Portion, Net
Amount of Gain or (Loss) Recognized in Income on Derivatives (Ineffective Portion and Amount Excluded from Effectiveness Testing)
Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) Recognized in Income, Ineffective Portion and Amount Excluded from Effectiveness Testing, Net
Schedule of Defined Benefit Plans Disclosures [Table]
Schedule of Defined Benefit Plans Disclosures [Table]
Defined Benefit Plans and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans [Axis]
Defined Benefit Plans and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans [Axis]
Defined Benefit Plans and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans [Domain]
Defined Benefit Plans and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans [Domain]
Pension Plans, Defined Benefit
Pension Plans, Defined Benefit [Member]
Other Postretirement Benefit Plans, Defined Benefit
Other Postretirement Benefit Plans, Defined Benefit [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Service cost
Defined Benefit Plan, Service Cost
Interest cost
Defined Benefit Plan, Interest Cost
Expected return on plan assets
Defined Benefit Plan, Expected Return on Plan Assets
Amortization of net loss
Defined Benefit Plan, Amortization of Net Gains (Losses)
Net cost recognized
Defined Benefit Plan, Net Periodic Benefit Cost
Discretionary contribution by Company
Defined Benefit Plan, Contributions by Employer
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax [Abstract]
Comprehensive Income
Comprehensive Income (Loss) Note [Text Block]
Other Intangible Assets and Liabilities
Goodwill And Other Intangible Assets and Liabilities [Text Block]
Goodwill And Other Intangible Assets and Liabilities [Text Block]
Schedule of Variable Interest Entities [Table]
Schedule of Variable Interest Entities [Table]
Variable Interest Entity, Primary Beneficiary
Variable Interest Entity, Primary Beneficiary [Member]
Variable Interest Entity [Line Items]
Variable Interest Entity [Line Items]
Company limited partner holding interest, percentage
Variable Interest Entity, Qualitative or Quantitative Information, Ownership Percentage
General partner holding interest, percentage
Limited Liability Company (LLC) or Limited Partnership (LP), Managing Member or General Partner, Ownership Interest
Unconsolidated Partnership, assets
Variable Interest Entity, Assets
Variable Interest Entity, Assets
Unamortized investment balance classified as Other Assets
Variable Interest Entity, Nonconsolidated, Unamortized Investment Balance
Variable Interest Entity, Nonconsolidated, Unamortized Investment Balance
Remaining commitments classified as Other Liabilities
Other Commitment
Maximum exposure to loss
Variable Interest Entity, Reporting Entity Involvement, Maximum Loss Exposure, Amount
Remaining commitments due at the end of 2012
Other Commitment, Due in Next Twelve Months
Remaining commitments due at the end of 2013
Other Commitment, Due in Second Year
Environmental Issue
Environmental Issue [Member]
Number of alleged environmental contamination sites (in sites)
Administrative Judicial and Other Mandatory Cleanup Efforts Total Sites
Administrative, Judicial and Other Mandatory Cleanup Efforts, Total Sites
Number of environmental superfund sites (in sites)
Administrative Judicial and Other Mandatory Cleanup Efforts Superfund Sites
Administrative, Judicial and Other Mandatory Cleanup Efforts, Superfund Sites
Liability for third-party tort claims
Recorded Liability For Third Party Environmental Tort Claims
Recorded Liability For Third Party Environmental Tort Claims
Accrued obligations for environmental matters, current liabilities
Accrued Environmental Loss Contingencies, Current
Reduction In expense due to settlements of environmental liabilities
Reduction In Expense Due to Settlements of Environmental Liabilities
Reduction In Expense Due to Settlements of Environmental Liabilities
Additional Expense Based on Actuarial Study Results
Additional Expense Based on Actuarial Study Results
Additional Expense Based on Actuarial Study Results
Estimated time frame for accrued cost distributions
Site Contingency, Estimated Time Frame for Accrued Cost Distributions
Site Contingency, Estimated Time Frame for Accrued Cost Distributions
Future costs for environmental liabilities, minimum
Future costs for environmental liabilities, maximum
Accrual for Environmental Loss Contingencies [Roll Forward]
Accrual for Environmental Loss Contingencies [Roll Forward]
Beginning balance
Accrual for Environmental Loss Contingencies
Accruals
Accrual For Environmental Loss Contingencies Provision
Accrual For Environmental Loss Contingencies Provision
Payments
Accrual for Environmental Loss Contingencies, Payments
Ending balance
Other Assets
Other Asset, Investment in Variable Interest Entity [Text Block]
Other Asset, Investment in Variable Interest Entity [Text Block]
Commitments and Contingencies
Commitments and Contingencies Disclosure [Text Block]
Unrecognized prior service credit and actuarial losses, net of tax (see Note 8)
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Pension and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans, Net of Tax
Fuel hedge mark-to-market, net of tax (see Note 2)
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Cumulative Changes in Net Gain (Loss) from Cash Flow Hedges, Effect Net of Tax
Accumulated other comprehensive loss of equity method investees
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) Equity Method Investees, Net of Tax
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) Equity Method Investees, Net of Tax
Total accumulated other comprehensive loss
Receivables [Abstract]
Allowance for bill adjustments and uncollectible accounts
Allowance for Bill Adjustments and Doubtful Accounts Receivable, Current
A valuation allowance for trade and other receivables due to an Entity within one year (or the normal operating cycle, whichever is longer) that have bill adjustments or are expected to be uncollectible.
Accounts receivable greater than 90 days old
Accounts Receivable, Current, Greater than 90 Days Past Due
Accounts Receivable, Current, Greater than 90 Days Past Due
Accounts Receivable, Net
Loans, Notes, Trade and Other Receivables Disclosure [Text Block]
Schedule of Finite-Lived Intangible Assets and Liabilities
Schedule of Finite-Lived Intangible Assets and Liabilities [Table Text Block]
Schedule of Finite-Lived Intangible Assets and Liabilities [Table Text Block]
Schedule of Finite-Lived Intangible Assets and Liabilities Amortization Expense
Schedule of Finite-Lived Intangible Assets and Liabilities Amortization Expense [Table Text Block]
Schedule of Finite-Lived Intangible Assets and Liabilities Amortization Expense [Table Text Block]
Schedule of Finite-Lived Intangible Assets and Liabilities, Future Amortization Expense
Schedule of Finite-Lived Intangible Assets and Liabilities, Future Amortization Expense [Table Text Block]
Schedule of Finite-Lived Intangible Assets and Liabilities, Future Amortization Expense [Table Text Block]
Accounting Policies and Interim Results
Organization, Consolidation and Presentation of Financial Statements Disclosure [Text Block]
Schedule of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss)
Schedule of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Table Text Block]
Schedule of Net Benefit Costs
Schedule of Net Benefit Costs [Table Text Block]
Schedule of Long-term Debt Instruments [Table]
Schedule of Long-term Debt Instruments [Table]
Long-term Debt, Type [Axis]
Long-term Debt, Type [Axis]
Long-term Debt, Type [Domain]
Long-term Debt, Type [Domain]
Corporate Debt Securities
Corporate Debt Securities [Member]
SEC Debt Shelf Registration
SEC Debt Shelf Registration [Member]
SEC Debt Shelf Registration [Member]
Junior Subordinated Debt
Junior Subordinated Debt [Member]
Debt Instrument [Axis]
Debt Instrument [Axis]
Debt Instrument, Name [Domain]
Debt Instrument, Name [Domain]
Three Point Zero Five Percent Debentures Due September 1, 2022 [Member]
Three Point Zero Five Percent Debentures Due September 1, 2022 [Member]
Three Point Zero Five Percent Debentures Due September 1, 2022 [Member]
Four Point Three Seven Five Percent Debentures Due September 1, 2042 [Member]
Four Point Three Seven Five Percent Debentures Due September 1, 2042 [Member]
Four Point Three Seven Five Percent Debentures Due September 1, 2042 [Member]
Three Point Zero Five Percent Debentures Due March 15, 2022
Three Point Zero Five Percent Debentures Due March 15, 2022 [Member]
Three Point Zero Five Percent Debentures Due March 15, 2022 [Member]
Four Point Four Zero Percent Debentures Due March 15, 2042
Four Point Four Zero Percent Debentures Due March 15, 2042 [Member]
Four Point Four Zero Percent Debentures Due March 15, 2042 [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Debentures issued amount
Debt Instrument, Face Amount
Debentures interest rate
Debt Instrument, Interest Rate, Stated Percentage
Additional debt securities authorized for issuance by the Board of Managers
Additional Debt Securities Authorized For Issuance By The Board of Managers
Additional Debt Securities Authorized For Issuance By The Board of Managers
Remaining amount of debt securities that may be issued
Debt Instrument, Unused Borrowing Capacity, Amount
Subordinated notes related to financial covenants
Debt Instrument, Covenant Debt
Certain issued and outstanding junior subordinated notes pertaining to certain financial covenants.
Debt, fair value
Long-term Debt, Fair Value
Debt, book value
Long-term Debt