Equity [Abstract] Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Table] Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Table] Equity Components [Axis] Equity Components [Axis] Equity Component [Domain] Equity Component [Domain] Accumulated Foreign Currency Adjustment Attributable to Parent [Member] Accumulated Foreign Currency Adjustment Attributable to Parent [Member] Accumulated Defined Benefit Plans Adjustment Attributable to Parent [Member] Accumulated Defined Benefit Plans Adjustment Attributable to Parent [Member] Accumulated Net Investment Gain (Loss) Attributable to Parent [Member] Accumulated Net Investment Gain (Loss) Attributable to Parent [Member] Accumulated Net Gain (Loss) from Cash Flow Hedges Attributable to Parent [Member] Accumulated Net Gain (Loss) from Cash Flow Hedges Attributable to Parent [Member] Parent [Member] Parent [Member] Investments in Watsco, Inc. Watsco [Member] Watsco - AFS securities Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Line Items] Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Line Items] Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax Other comprehensive (loss) income before reclassifications, net - Foreign Currency Translation Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Foreign Currency Transaction and Translation Gain (Loss), before Reclassification and Tax Amounts reclassified, pretax - Foreign Currency Translation Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Foreign Currency Transaction and Translation Reclassification Adjustment from AOCI, Realized upon Sale or Liquidation, before Tax Tax reclassified - Foreign Currency Translation Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Foreign Currency Transaction and Translation Reclassification Adjustment from AOCI, Realized upon Sale or Liquidation, Tax Other comprehensive (loss) income before reclassifications, net - Pension Other Comprehensive (Income) Loss, Pension and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans, Adjustment, before Reclassification Adjustments, Net of Tax Amounts reclassified, pretax - Pension Other Comprehensive (Income) Loss, Amortization Adjustment from AOCI, Pension and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans, for Net Prior Service Cost (Credit), before Tax Tax reclassified - Pension Other Comprehensive (Income) Loss, Reclassification Adjustment from AOCI, Pension and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans, Tax Other comprehensive (loss) income before reclassifications, net - AFS Securities Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Unrealized Holding Gain (Loss) on Securities Arising During Period, Net of Tax Amounts reclassified, pretax - AFS Securities Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Reclassification Adjustment from AOCI for Sale of Securities, before Tax Tax reclassified - AFS Securities Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Reclassification Adjustment from AOCI for Sale of Securities, Tax Other comprehensive (loss) income before reclassifications, net - Unrealized Hedging (Losses) Gains Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Unrealized Gain (Loss) on Derivatives Arising During Period, Net of Tax Amounts reclassified, pretax - Unrealized Hedging (Losses) Gains Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Reclassification Adjustment from AOCI on Derivatives, before Tax Tax reclassified - Unrealized Hedging (Losses) Gains Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Reclassification Adjustment from AOCI on Derivatives, Tax Other comprehensive (loss) income before reclassifications, net OCI, before Reclassifications, before Tax, Attributable to Parent Amounts reclassified, pretax Reclassification from AOCI, Current Period, before Tax, Attributable to Parent Tax reclassified Reclassification from AOCI, Current Period, Tax New Accounting Pronouncements and Changes in Accounting Principles [Abstract] New Accounting Pronouncements or Change in Accounting Principle [Table] New Accounting Pronouncements or Change in Accounting Principle [Table] Adjustments for New Accounting Pronouncements [Axis] Adjustments for New Accounting Pronouncements [Axis] Type of Adoption [Domain] Type of Adoption [Domain] New Accounting Pronouncements or Change in Accounting Principle [Line Items] New Accounting Pronouncements or Change in Accounting Principle [Line Items] New Accounting Pronouncement or Change in Accounting Principle, Description New Accounting Pronouncement or Change in Accounting Principle, Description Compensation and Retirement Disclosure [Abstract] Defined Benefit Plans and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans Disclosures [Table] Defined Benefit Plans and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans Disclosures [Table] Defined Benefit Plans and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans [Axis] Defined Benefit Plans and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans [Axis] Defined Benefit Plan and Other Postretirement Benefit Plan [Domain] Defined Benefit Plan and Other Postretirement Benefit Plan [Domain] Pension Plan [Member] Pension Plan [Member] Other Postretirement Benefit Plan [Member] Other Postretirement Benefit Plan [Member] Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items] Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items] Contributions - Defined benefit plans Defined Benefit Plan, Contributions by Employer Contributions - Defined contribution plans Defined Contribution Plan, Cost Recognized 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 prior service credit Defined Benefit Plan, Amortization of Prior Service Cost (Credit) Recognized actuarial net loss (gain) Defined Benefit Plan, Amortization of Gains (Losses) Net settlement and curtailment loss Defined Benefit Plan, Recognized Net Gain (Loss) Due to Settlements and Curtailments Total net periodic benefit (income) cost Defined Benefit Plan, Net Periodic Benefit Cost Defined Benefit Plan, Effect of Plan Amendment on Accumulated Benefit Obligation Defined Benefit Plan, Effect of Plan Amendment on Accumulated Benefit Obligation Commitments and Contingencies Disclosure [Abstract] Loss Contingencies [Table] Loss Contingencies [Table] Loss Contingencies By Party [Axis] Loss Contingencies By Party [Axis] Quantifies and describes each loss contingency that exists as of the balance sheet date, by party. Loss Contingency Party [Domain] Loss Contingency Party [Domain] Name of the party related to an existing condition, situation, or set of circumstances involving uncertainty as to possible loss to an enterprise that will ultimately be resolved when one or more future events occur or fail to occur. Resolution of the uncertainty may confirm the incurrence of a loss or impairment of an asset or the incurrence of a liability. US Defense Contract Management Claim against Pratt and Whitney [Member] US Defense Contract Management Claim against Pratt and Whitney [Member] US Defense Contract Management Claim against Pratt and Whitney [Member] Asbestos Matter [Member] Asbestos Matter [Member] Asbestos Matter [Member] Litigation Case [Axis] Litigation Case [Axis] Litigation Case [Domain] Litigation Case [Domain] U.S. Defense Contract Management Agency Claim Against Pratt & Whitney [Member] U.S. Defense Contract Management Agency Claim Against Pratt & Whitney [Member] U.S. Defense Contract Management Agency Claim Against Pratt & Whitney [Member] German Tax Office Against Otis [Member] German Tax Office Against Otis - cash payments in prior year [Member] German Tax Office Against Otis - cash payments in prior year Loss Contingencies [Line Items] Loss Contingencies [Line Items] Loss Contingency Lawsuit Filing Date Loss Contingency, Lawsuit Filing Date Loss Contingency Allegations Loss Contingency, Allegations Loss Contingency Damages Sought Loss Contingency, Damages Sought Loss Contingency Actions Taken By Defendant Loss Contingency, Actions Taken by Defendant Estimate of interest on tax benefit Loss Contingency, Interest Interest associated with damages sought in legal matter. Loss Contingency, Interest Paid Loss Contingency, Interest Paid Interest paid to third party related to loss contingency Loss Contingency, Management's Assessment and Process Loss Contingency, Management's Assessment and Process Loss Contingency, Estimate of Possible Loss Loss Contingency, Estimate of Possible Loss Loss Contingency, Receivable Loss Contingency, Receivable New Accounting Pronouncements, Policy [Policy Text Block] New Accounting Pronouncements, Policy [Policy Text Block] Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities Disclosure [Abstract] Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) [Table] Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) [Table] Income Statement Location [Axis] Income Statement Location [Axis] Income Statement Location [Domain] Income Statement Location [Domain] Other Income [Member] Other Income [Member] Other Comprehensive Income Location [Axis] Other Comprehensive Income Location [Axis] Other Comprehensive Income Location [Domain] Other Comprehensive Income Location [Domain] Reclassification out of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income [Member] Reclassification out of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income [Member] Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) [Line Items] Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) [Line Items] Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) [Table Text Block] Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) [Table Text Block] Schedule of Derivative Instruments in Statement of Financial Position, Fair Value [Table Text Block] Schedule of Derivative Instruments in Statement of Financial Position, Fair Value [Table Text Block] Contingent Liabilities [Text Block] Commitments and Contingencies Disclosure [Text Block] Income Statement [Abstract] Net Sales: Revenue, Net [Abstract] Product Sales Sales Revenue, Goods, Net Service Sales Sales Revenue, Services, Net Total net sales Revenue, Net Costs and Expenses: Costs and Expenses [Abstract] Cost of products sold Cost of Goods Sold Cost of services sold Cost of Services Research and development Research and Development Expense Selling, general and administrative Selling, General and Administrative Expense Total costs and expenses Costs and Expenses Other income, net Other Operating Income Operating profit Operating Income (Loss) Interest expense, net Interest Expense Income from continuing operations before income taxes Income (Loss) from Continuing Operations before Income Taxes, Noncontrolling Interest Income tax expense Income Tax Expense (Benefit) Net Income from continuing operations Income (Loss) from Continuing Operations, Net of Tax, Including Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest Less: Noncontrolling interest in subsidiaries' earnings from continuing operations Income (Loss) from Continuing Operations, Net of Tax, Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest Income from continuing operations attributable to common shareowners Income (Loss) from Continuing Operations, Net of Tax, Attributable to Parent Discontinued operations (Note 2): Income (Loss) from Discontinued Operations, Net of Tax, Including Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest [Abstract] Gain on disposal Discontinued Operation, Gain (Loss) from Disposal of Discontinued Operation, before Income Tax Income tax expense Discontinued Operation, Tax Effect of Discontinued Operation Income (loss) from discontinued operations Income (Loss) from Discontinued Operations, Net of Tax, Including Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest Income from discontinued operations attributable to common shareowners Income (Loss) from Discontinued Operations, Net of Tax, Attributable to Parent Net income attributable to common shareowners Net Income (Loss) Attributable to Parent Earnings Per Share of Common Stock - Basic: Earnings Per Share, Basic [Abstract] Income from continuing operations attributable to common shareowners Income (Loss) from Continuing Operations, Per Basic Share Net income attributable to common shareowners Earnings Per Share, Basic Earnings Per Share of Common Stock - Diluted: Earnings Per Share, Diluted [Abstract] Income from continuing operations attributable to common shareowners Income (Loss) from Continuing Operations, Per Diluted Share Net income attributable to common shareowners Earnings Per Share, Diluted New Accounting Pronouncements [Axis] New Accounting Pronouncements [Axis] New Accounting Pronouncements [Axis] New Accounting Pronouncements [Domain] New Accounting Pronouncements [Domain] [Domain] for New Accounting Pronouncements [Axis] ASU 2016-08 [Member] ASU 2016-08 [Member] The ASU clarifies how an entity should identify the unit of accounting for the principal versus agent evaluation and how it should apply the control principal to certain types of arrangements. ASU 2016-10 [Member] ASU 2016-10 [Member] This ASU clarifies the guidance surrounding licensing arrangements and the identification of performance obligations. ASU 2016-12 [Member] ASU 2016-12 [Member] ASU addresses implementation issues raised by stakeholders concerning collectability, noncash consideration, presentation of sales tax and transition. ASU 2016-20 [Member] [Domain] ASU 2016-20 [Member] [Domain] ASU 2016-20, Revenue from Contracts with Customers (Topic 606), Technical Corrections and Improvements - addresses loan guarantee fees, impairment testing of contract costs, provisions for losses on certain contracts, and various disclosures. ASU 2015-14 [Member] ASU 2015-14 [Member] ASU defers the effect date of Topic 606 - Revenue from contracts with customers ASU 2016-01 [Member] ASU 2016-01 [Member] This ASU modifies how entities measure equity investments and present changes in the fair value of financial liabilities. Upon adoption, investments that do not result in consolidation and are not accounted for under the equity method generally must be carried at fair value with changes in fair value recognized in net income. ASU 2016-02 [Member] ASU 2016-02 [Member] Under the amendments of this ASU, lessees will be required to recognize the following for all leases (with the exception of short-term leases) at the commencement date; (1) a lease liability, which is a lessee's obligation to make lease payments arising from a lease, measured on a discounted basis; and (2) a right-of-use asset, which is an asset that represents the lessee's right to use, or control the use of, a specified asset for the lease term. Lessor accounting is largely unchanged under the amendments of this ASU. ASU 2016-13 [Member] ASU 2016-13 [Member] ASU requires certain financial assets, including those measured at amortized cost basis, be presented at the net amount expected to be collected, utilizing an impairment model known as the current expected credit loss model. Under this ASU, entities must use an allowance approach for credit losses on available for sale debt securities and the allowances must be limited to the amount at which security's fair value is below the amortized costs of the asset. ASU 2016-16 [Member] ASU 2016-16 [Member] Income taxes (Topic 740): Intra-Entity Transfers of Assets Other Than Inventory. Requires the income tax consequences of an intra-entity transfer of an asset, other than inventory, to be recognized when the transfer occurs. ASU 2017-01 [Member] ASU 2017-01 [Member] This ASU provides a new framework that will assist in the evaluation of whether business combination transactions should be accounted as acquisition of a business or a group of assets, as well as specifying the minimum required inputs and processes necessary to be a business. ASU 2017-04 [Member] ASU 2017-04 [Member] This ASU eliminates Step 2 of the current goodwill impairment test, which requires a hypothetical purchase price allocation to measure goodwill impairment. A goodwill impairment loss will instead be measured at the amount by which a reporting unit's carrying value exceeds its fair value, not to exceed the recorded amount of goodwill. ASU 2017-07 [Member] ASU 2017-07 [Member] This ASU requires an employer to report the service cost component of net periodic pension benefit cost in the same line item or items as other compensation costs arising from services rendered by the pertinent employees during the period, with other cost components presented separately from the service cost component and outside of income from operations. This ASU also allows only the service cost component of net periodic pension benefit cost to be eligible for capitalization when applicable. Debt Disclosure [Abstract] Line of Credit Facility [Table] Line of Credit Facility [Table] Lender Name [Axis] Lender Name [Axis] Line of Credit Facility, Lender [Domain] Line of Credit Facility, Lender [Domain] Revolving Credit Agreement [Member] Revolving Credit Agreement [Member] Revolving credit facility available as of the balance-sheet date. Multicurrency Revolving Credit Agreement [Member] Multicurrency Revolving Credit Agreement [Member] Multicurrency revolving credit facility available as of the balance-sheet date. Line of Credit Facility [Line Items] Line of Credit Facility [Line Items] Long-term Line of Credit Long-term Line of Credit Aggregate Line of Credit Facility Maximum Borrowing Capacity Aggregate Line of Credit Facility Maximum Borrowing Capacity Line of Credit Facility, Maximum Borrowing Capacity Line of Credit Facility, Maximum Borrowing Capacity Line of Credit Facility, Expiration Date Line of Credit Facility, Expiration Date Maximum Commercial Paper Borrowing Authority Maximum Commercial Paper Borrowing Authority The maximum amount of commercial paper borrowing authority fir general corporate purposes, including the funding of potential acquisitions and repurchases of common stock. Commercial paper, euro-denominated Commercial paper, euro-denominated Euro-denominated Commercial paper - carrying value as of the balance sheet date of short-term borrowings using unsecured obligations issued by banks, corporations and other borrowers to investors. The maturities of these money market securities generally do not exceed 270 days. Service and Product Warranties and Product Performance Guarantees [Abstract] Service and Product Warranties and Product Performance Guarantees [Abstract] Product Warranty Disclosure [Table Text Block] Schedule of Product Warranty Liability [Table Text Block] Business Combination, Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired, Goodwill, and Liabilities Assumed, Net [Abstract] Amortization of Intangible Assets Amortization of Intangible Assets Amortization Expense, Remaining 2017 Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Amortization Expense, Remainder of Fiscal Year Amortization Expense, 2018 Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Amortization Expense, Next Twelve Months Amortization Expense, 2019 Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Amortization Expense, Year Two Amortization Expense, 2020 Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Amortization Expense, Year Three Amortization Expense, 2021 Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Amortization Expense, Year Four Amortization Expense, 2022 Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Amortization Expense, Year Five Earnings Per Share [Abstract] Schedule of Earnings Per Share, Basic and Diluted [Table Text Block] Schedule of Earnings Per Share, Basic and Diluted [Table Text Block] Schedule of Goodwill [Table] Schedule of Goodwill [Table] Segments [Axis] Segments [Axis] Segments [Domain] Segments [Domain] Otis [Member] Otis [Member] UTC Climate, Controls & Security [Member] UTC Climate, Controls and Security [Member] Pratt & Whitney [Member] Pratt and Whitney [Member] UTC Aerospace Systems [Member] UTC Aerospace Systems [Member] Total Segments [Member] Total Segments [Member] Eliminations and other [Member] Eliminations and other [Member] Segment member representing both Corporate functions and intersegment eliminations Goodwill [Line Items] Goodwill [Line Items] Goodwill - Beginning Balance Goodwill Goodwill Resulting from Business Combinations Goodwill, Acquired During Period Goodwill - Foreign Currency Translation and Other Goodwill translation and other, increase (decrease) Reflects net changes to the recorded value of goodwill for foreign currency translation adjustments and other adjustments needed to revise the carrying amount of goodwill to fair value. Goodwill - Ending Balance Statement of Cash Flows [Abstract] Net income from Continuing Operations Operating Activities of Continuing Operations: Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Operating Activities, Continuing Operations [Abstract] Adjustments to reconcile income from continuing operations to net cash flows provided by operating activities of continuing operations: Adjustments to Reconcile Net Income (Loss) to Cash Provided by (Used in) Operating Activities [Abstract] Depreciation and amortization Depreciation, Amortization and Accretion, Net Deferred income tax provision Deferred Income Tax Expense (Benefit) Stock compensation cost Share-based Compensation Change in: Increase (Decrease) in Operating Capital [Abstract] Accounts receivable Increase (Decrease) in Receivables Inventories and contracts in progress Increase (Decrease) in Inventories Other current assets Increase (Decrease) in Other Operating Assets Accounts payable and accrued liabilities Increase (Decrease) in Accounts Payable and Accrued Liabilities Global pension contributions Pension Contributions Canadian Government Settlement Increase (Decrease) in Royalties Payable Other operating activities, net Other Noncash Income (Expense) Net cash flows provided by operating activities of continuing operations Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Operating Activities, Continuing Operations Investing Activities of Continuing Operations: Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Investing Activities, Continuing Operations [Abstract] Capital expenditures Payments to Acquire Productive Assets Investments in businesses Payments to Acquire Businesses and Interest in Affiliates Dispositions of businesses Payments for (Proceeds from) Businesses and Interest in Affiliates Dispositions of businesses Proceeds from Divestiture of Businesses and Interests in Affiliates Proceeds from the sale of the investment in Watsco Inc. Proceeds from the sale of the investment in Watsco Inc. The cash inflow associated with the sale of debt and equity securities related to Watsco Inc. classified as available-for-sale securities (Increase) in customer financing assets Payments to Acquire Finance Receivables Decrease in customer financing assets Proceeds from Collection of Finance Receivables Increase in collaboration intangible assets Payments to Acquire Intangible Assets (Payments) receipts from settlements of derivative contracts Payments for (Proceeds from) Derivative Instrument, Investing Activities Other investing activities, net Payments for (Proceeds from) Other Investing Activities Net cash flows used in investing activities of continuing operations Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Investing Activities, Continuing Operations Financing Activities of Continuing Operations: Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Financing Activities, Continuing Operations [Abstract] (Repayment) issuance of long-term debt, net Proceeds from (Repayments of) Long-term Debt and Capital Securities Increase in short-term borrowings, net Proceeds from (Repayments of) Short-term Debt Proceeds from Common Stock issued under employee stock plans Proceeds from Stock Plans Dividends paid on Common Stock Payments of Ordinary Dividends, Common Stock Repurchase of Common Stock Payments for Repurchase of Common Stock Other financing activities, net Proceeds from (Payments for) Other Financing Activities Net cash flows (used in) provided by financing activities of continuing operations Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Financing Activities, Continuing Operations Discontinued Operations: Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Discontinued Operations [Abstract] Net cash flows used in operating activities of discontinued operations Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Discontinued Operations Effect of Exchange Rate on Cash and Cash Equivalents [Abstract] Effect of Exchange Rate on Cash and Cash Equivalents [Abstract] Effect of foreign exchange rate changes on cash and cash equivalents Effect of Exchange Rate on Cash and Cash Equivalents Net (decrease) increase in cash and cash equivalents Net increase (decrease) in cash and cash equivalents Amount of increase (decrease) in cash and cash equivalents. Cash and cash equivalents are the amount of currency on hand as well as demand deposits. Also includes short-term, highly liquid investments that are readily convertible to known amounts of cash and so near their maturity that they present insignificant risk of changes in value because of changes in interest rates, includes effect from exchange rate changes. Cash and Cash Equivalents, beginning of year Cash and Cash Equivalents, at Carrying Value, Including Discontinued Operations Cash and Cash Equivalents, end of period Less: Cash and cash equivalents of businesses held for sale Disposal Group, Including Discontinued Operation, Cash and Cash Equivalents Cash and cash equivalents, end of period Cash and Cash Equivalents, at Carrying Value Income Tax Disclosure [Abstract] Income Tax Disclosure [Text Block] Income Tax Disclosure [Text Block] Discontinued Operations and Disposal Groups [Abstract] Disposal Group, Including Discontinued Operation, Income Statement Disclosures [Abstract] Disposal Group, Including Discontinued Operation, Description and Timing of Disposal Disposal Group, Including Discontinued Operation, Description and Timing of Disposal Discontinued Operation, Gain (Loss) on Disposal of Discontinued Operation, Net of Tax [Abstract] Discontinued Operations: (Loss) gain on disposal Net cash outflows from discontinued operations Schedule of Short-Term Debt [Table Text Block] Schedule of Short-term Debt [Table Text Block] Schedule of Long-term Debt [Table Text Block] Schedule of Long-term Debt Instruments [Table Text Block] Business Combination, Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed, Net [Abstract] Acquisition Cost Of Acquired Entities and Interest in Affiliates Acquisition Cost Of Acquired Entities and Interest in Affiliates The total cost of acquired entities and interest in affiliates including the cash paid to shareholders, fair value of debt and equity securities issued to shareholders, the fair value of the liabilities assumed, and direct costs of the acquisitions and interest in affiliates. Receivables [Abstract] Long Term Receivables High Credit Risk Percentage Long Term Receivables High Credit Risk Percentage Long Term Receivables High Credit Risk Percentage Financing Receivable Reserve For Credit Losses And Exposure Financing Receivable, Allowance for Credit Losses, Individually Evaluated for Impairment Four Quarter Rolling Average of Notional Amount of Foreign Exchange Contracts Hedging Foreign Currency Transactions Four Quarter Rolling Average Of Notional Amount Of Foreign Exchange Contracts Hedging Foreign Currency Transactions Four quarter rolling average notional amount of all foreign currency derivatives designated as hedging instruments in cash flow hedges. Notional amount refers to the number of currency units specified in the foreign currency derivative contract. Description of Net Investment Hedge Activity Description of Net Investment Hedge Activity Derivatives designated as hedging instruments, Asset Derivatives Foreign Currency Cash Flow Hedge Asset at Fair Value Derivatives not designated as hedging instruments, Asset Derivatives Foreign Currency Derivative Instruments Not Designated as Hedging Instruments, Asset at Fair Value Derivatives designated as hedging instruments, Liability Derivatives Foreign Currency Cash Flow Hedge Liability at Fair Value Derivatives not designated as hedging instruments, Liability Derivatives Foreign Currency Derivative Instruments Not Designated as Hedging Instruments, Liability at Fair Value (Loss) gain recorded in Accumulated other comprehensive loss Unrealized Gain (Loss) on Foreign Currency Derivatives, Net, before Tax Loss reclassified from Accumulated other comprehensive loss into Product Sales (effective portion) Foreign Currency Cash Flow Hedge Gain (Loss) Reclassified to Earnings, Net Foreign Currency Cash Flow Hedge Loss to be Reclassified During Next 12 Months Foreign Currency Cash Flow Hedge Gain (Loss) to be Reclassified During Next 12 Months Maximum Length of Time, Foreign Currency Cash Flow Hedge Maximum Length of Time, Foreign Currency Cash Flow Hedge Gain recognized in Other income, net Gain (Loss) on Foreign Currency Derivative Instruments Not Designated as Hedging Instruments (Payments) receipts from settlements of derivative contracts Fair Value Disclosures [Abstract] Fair Value Measurements, Recurring and Nonrecurring [Table] Fair Value Measurements, Recurring and Nonrecurring [Table] Measurement Frequency [Axis] Measurement Frequency [Axis] Fair Value, Measurement Frequency [Domain] Fair Value, Measurement Frequency [Domain] Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member] Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member] Fair Value, Hierarchy [Axis] Fair Value, Hierarchy [Axis] Fair Value Hierarchy [Domain] Fair Value Hierarchy [Domain] Fair Value Level 1 [Member] Fair Value, Inputs, Level 1 [Member] Fair Value Level 2 [Member] Fair Value, Inputs, Level 2 [Member] Fair Value Level 3 [Member] Fair Value, Inputs, Level 3 [Member] Measurement Basis [Axis] Measurement Basis [Axis] Fair Value Measurement [Domain] Fair Value Measurement [Domain] Portion at Fair Value Measurement [Member] Portion at Fair Value Measurement [Member] Portion at Other than Fair Value Measurement [Member] Portion at Other than Fair Value Measurement [Member] Estimate of Fair Value, Fair Value Disclosure [Member] Estimate of Fair Value Measurement [Member] Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items] Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items] Available-for-sale securities Investments, Fair Value Disclosure Derivative Assets Derivative Asset Derivative Liabilities Derivative Liability Long-term receivables Long-term receivables Fair Value Disclosure This element is used in connection with the fair value disclosures required in the footnote disclosures to the financial statements. This element represents the fair value of long-term receivables. Customer financing notes receivable Customer Financing Notes Receivable Fair Value Disclosure This element is used in connection with the fair value disclosures required in the footnote disclosures to the financial statements. This element represents the fair value of customer financing notes receivable. Short-term borrowings Short-term Debt Long-term debt (excluding capitalized leases) Long-term debt (excluding capitalized leases) Fair Value Disclosure This element is used in connection with the fair value disclosures required in the footnote disclosures to the financial statements. This element represents the fair value of long-term borrowings (excluding capitalized leases). Long-term liabilities Other long-term liabilities, Fair Value Disclosure This element is used in connection with the recurring fair value measurement disclosures required in the footnote disclosures to the financial statements. This element represents the fair value of lother long-term liabilities. Stockholders' Equity Note [Abstract] Statement [Table] Statement [Table] Shareowners' Equity [Member] Noncontrolling Interest [Member] Noncontrolling Interest [Member] Statement [Line Items] Statement [Line Items] Shareowners' Equity, beginning of period Stockholders' Equity Attributable to Parent Noncontrolling interest, beginning of period Stockholders' Equity Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest Total Equity, beginning of period Stockholders' Equity, Including Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest Net income, Shareowners' Equity Net Income, Noncontrolling Interest Net Income (Loss) Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest Net income, Total Equity Net Income (Loss), Including Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest Total other comprehensive (loss) income, Shareowners' Equity Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax, Portion Attributable to Parent Total other comprehensive income (loss), Noncontrolling Interest Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax, Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest Total other comprehensive (loss) income Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax Total comprehensive income for the period, Shareowners' Equity Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax, Attributable to Parent Total comprehensive income for the period, Noncontrolling Interest Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax, Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest Total comprehensive income for the period, Total Equity Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax, Including Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest Common Stock issued under employee plans Stock Issued During Period, Value, Share-based Compensation, Net of Forfeitures Common Stock repurchased Treasury Stock, Value, Acquired, Cost Method Dividends on Common Stock Dividends, Common Stock Dividends on ESOP Common Stock Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP), Dividends Paid to ESOP Dividends attributable to noncontrolling interest Noncontrolling Interest, Decrease from Distributions to Noncontrolling Interest Holders Purchase of subsidiary shares from noncontrolling interest (Purchase) / sale of subsidiary shares from noncontrolling interest Decrease/ Increase related to (Purchase) / sale of subsidiary shares from noncontrolling interest Acquisition of noncontrolling interest Noncontrolling Interest, Increase from Business Combination Other Stockholders' Equity, Other Shareowners' Equity, end of period Noncontrolling interest, end of period Total Equity, end of period Product Warranty Liability [Table] Product Warranty Liability [Table] Balance Sheet Location [Axis] Balance Sheet Location [Axis] Balance Sheet Location [Domain] Balance Sheet Location [Domain] Product Warranty Liability [Line Items] Product Warranty Liability [Line Items] Balance as of January 1 Standard and Extended Product Warranty Accrual Warranties and performance guarantees issued Standard and Extended Product Warranty Accrual, Increase for Warranties Issued Settlements made Standard and Extended Product Warranty Accrual, Decrease for Payments Other Standard and Extended Product Warranty Accrual, Increase (Decrease) for Preexisting Warranties Balance as of March 31 Restructuring and Related Activities [Abstract] Schedule of Restructuring and Related Costs [Table] Schedule of Restructuring and Related Costs [Table] Restructuring And Related Costs Actions By Year [Axis] Restructuring And Related Costs Actions By Year [Axis] The time period of restructuring and related costs that are included in an entity's restructuring reserve and restructuring reserve period expense Restructuring And Related Costs Actions By Year [Domain] Restructuring And Related Costs Actions By Year [Domain] Identification of the time periods of restructuring and related activities Current Year Actions [Member] Current Year Actions [Member] Activity related to restructuring programs or actions approved in the current year Prior Year Actions [Member] Prior Year Actions [Member] Activity related to restructuring programs or actions approved in the prior year Two Years Prior Actions [Member] Two Years Prior Actions [Member] Activity related to restructuring programs or actions approved two years prior to the current year Restructuring Type [Axis] Restructuring Type [Axis] Type of Restructuring [Domain] Type of Restructuring [Domain] Severance [Member] Employee Severance [Member] Facility Exit, Lease Termination and Other Costs Other Restructuring [Member] Cost of Sales [Member] Cost of Sales [Member] Selling, General and Administrative Expenses [Member] Selling, General and Administrative Expenses [Member] Restructuring Cost and Reserve [Line Items] Restructuring Cost and Reserve [Line Items] Restructuring Charges Restructuring Charges Restructuring Reserve Restructuring Reserve Net pre-tax restructuring costs (reversals) Restructuring Reserve, Accrual Adjustment Utilization and foreign exchange Restructuring Reserve, Translation and Other Adjustment Expected Costs Restructuring and Related Cost, Expected Cost Remaining Costs Restructuring and Related Cost, Expected Cost Remaining Restructuring Cost and Reserve [Line Items] Schedule of Restructuring and Related Costs [Table Text Block] Restructuring and Related Costs [Table Text Block] Schedule of Restructuring Reserve by Type of Cost [Table Text Block] Schedule of Restructuring Reserve by Type of Cost [Table Text Block] Schedule of Accounts, Notes, Loans and Financing Receivable [Table] Schedule of Accounts, Notes, Loans and Financing Receivable [Table] Products and Services [Axis] Products and Services [Axis] Products and Services [Domain] Products and Services [Domain] Commercial Aerospace [Member] Commercial Aerospace [Member] Accounts, Notes, Loans and Financing Receivable [Line Items] Accounts, Notes, Loans and Financing Receivable [Line Items] Financing and other contractual commitments Fair Value Disclosure, Off-balance Sheet Risks, Amount, Liability 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] Amortized: [Domain] Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Major Class Name [Domain] Service portfolios [Member] Service Agreements [Member] Patents and trademarks [Member] Patents and trademarks [Member] The exclusive legal right granted by the government to the owner of the patent to exploit an invention or a process for a period of time specified by law and The rights acquired through registration of a trademark to gain or protect exclusive use of a business name, symbol or other device or style. Collaboration intangible assets [Member] Collaboration [Member] Customer relationships and other [Member] Customer Relationships [Member] Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items] Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items] Gross Amount Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Gross Accumulated Amortization Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Accumulated Amortization Unamortized: Trademarks and Other Indefinite-Lived Intangible Assets (Excluding Goodwill) Total Intangible Assets Gross Excluding Goodwill Intangible Assets, Gross (Excluding Goodwill) Pension and Other Postretirement Benefits Disclosure [Text Block] Pension and Other Postretirement Benefits Disclosure [Text Block] Fair Value Measurements, Recurring and Nonrecurring [Table Text Block] Fair Value Measurements, Recurring and Nonrecurring [Table Text Block] Fair Value, by Balance Sheet Grouping [Table Text Block] Fair Value, by Balance Sheet Grouping [Table Text Block] Schedule of Long-term Debt Instruments [Table] Schedule of Long-term Debt Instruments [Table] Debt Instrument [Axis] Debt Instrument [Axis] Debt Instrument, Name [Domain] Debt Instrument, Name [Domain] Notes 1.800% Due 2017 [Member] Notes 1.800% Due 2017 [Member] Debt security issued by a domestic corporate business entity with a promise of repayment. Notes 6.800% Due 2018 [Member] Notes 6.800% Due 2018 [Member] Debt security issued by a domestic corporate business entity with a promise of repayment. Floating rate notes due 2018 [Member] EURIBOR plus 0.800% floating rate notes due 2018 [Member] Debt security issued by a foreign corporate business entity with a promise of repayment. Notes 1.778% due 2018 [Member] Junior subordinated notes 1.778% due 2018 [Member] Debt security issued by a domestic corporate business entity with a promise of repayment. LIBOR plus 0.350% floating rate notes due 2019 [Member] LIBOR plus 0.350% floating rate notes due 2019 [Member] Debt security issued by a domestic corporate business entity with a promise of repayment. Notes 1.500% notes 2019 [Member] Notes 1.500% notes 2019 [Member] Debt security issued by a domestic corporate business entity with a promise of repayment. Notes 8.875% Due 2019 [Member] Notes 8.875% Due 2019 [Member] Debt security issued by a domestic corporate business entity with a promise of repayment. Notes 4.875% Due 2020 [Member] Notes 4.875% Due 2020 [Member] Debt security issued by a domestic corporate business entity with a promise of repayment. Notes 4.500% Due 2020 [Member] Notes 4.500% Due 2020 [Member] Debt security issued by a domestic corporate business entity with a promise of repayment. Notes 8.750% Due 2021 [Member] Notes 8.750% Due 2021 [Member] Debt security issued by a domestic corporate business entity with a promise of repayment. Notes 1.950% Due 2021 [Member] Notes 1.950% Due 2021 [Member] Debt security issued by a domestic corporate business entity with a promise of repayment. Note 1.125% Due 2021 [Member] Note 1.125% Due 2021 [Member] Debt security issued by a foreign corporate business entity with a promise of repayment. Notes 3.100% Due 2022 [Member] Notes 3.100% Due 2022 [Member] Debt security issued by a domestic corporate business entity with a promise of repayment. Notes 1.250% due 2023 [Member] Notes 1.250% due 2023 [Member] Debt security issued by a foreign corporate business entity with a promise of repayment. Notes 1.875% Due 2026 [Member] Notes 1.875% Due 2026 [Member] Debt security issued by a foreign corporate business entity with a promise of repayment. Notes 2.650% Due 2026 [Member] Notes 2.650% Due 2026 [Member] Debt security issued by a foreign corporate business entity with a promise of repayment. Notes 7.100% Due 2027 [Member] Notes 7.100% Due 2027 [Member] Debt security issued by a domestic corporate business entity with a promise of repayment. Notes 6.700% Due 2028 [Member] Notes 6.700% Due 2028 [Member] Debt security issued by a domestic corporate business entity with a promise of repayment. Notes 7.500% Due 2029 [Member] Notes 7.500% Due 2029 [Member] Debt security issued by a domestic corporate business entity with a promise of repayment. Notes 5.400% Due 2035 [Member] Notes 5.400% Due 2035 [Member] Debt security issued by a domestic corporate business entity with a promise of repayment. Notes 6.050% Due 2036 [Member] Notes 6.050% Due 2036 [Member] Debt security issued by a domestic corporate business entity with a promise of repayment. Notes 6.800% Due 2036 [Member] Notes 6.800% Due 2036 [Member] Debt security issued by a domestic corporate business entity with a promise of repayment. Notes 7.000% Due 2038 [Member] Notes 7.000% Due 2038 [Member] Debt security issued by a domestic corporate business entity with a promise of repayment. Notes 6.125% Due 2038 [Member] Notes 6.125% Due 2038 [Member] Debt security issued by a domestic corporate business entity with a promise of repayment. Notes 5.700% Due 2040 [Member] Notes 5.700% Due 2040 [Member] Debt security issued by a domestic corporate business entity with a promise of repayment. Notes 4.500% Due 2042 [Member] Notes 4.500% Due 2042 [Member] Debt security issued by a domestic corporate business entity with a promise of repayment. Notes 4.150% Due 2045 [Member] Notes 4.150% Due 2045 [Member] [Member] Debt security issued by a domestic corporate business entity with a promise of repayment. Notes 3.750% Due 2046 [Member] Notes 3.750% Due 2046 [Member] Debt security issued by a domestic corporate business entity with a promise of repayment. Debt Instrument [Line Items] Debt Instrument [Line Items] Debt Instrument, Interest Rate, Stated Percentage Debt Instrument, Interest Rate, Stated Percentage Debt Instrument, Maturity Date, Description Debt Instrument, Maturity Date, Description Debt Instrument, Call Feature Debt Instrument, Call Feature Debt Instrument, Carrying Amount Long-term Debt, Gross Debt Instrument, Interest Rate Terms Debt Instrument, Interest Rate Terms Project financing obligations Other Loans Payable Other (including capitalized leases) Other Long-term Debt Total principal long-term debt Principal Long-Term Debt Including both current and noncurrent portions, carrying amount as of the balance-sheet date principal debt not elsewhere specified in the taxonomy with initial maturities beyond one year or beyond the normal operating cycle, if longer. Other (fair market value adjustments and discounts) Other Long-Term Debt Fair Market Value Adjustments Including both current and noncurrent portions, fair market value adjustments of debt not elsewhere specified in the taxonomy with initial maturities beyond one year or beyond the normal operating cycle, if longer. Total long-term debt Long-term Debt and Capital Lease Obligations, Including Current Maturities Less: current portion Long-term Debt and Capital Lease Obligations, Current Long-term debt, net of current portion Long-term Debt and Capital Lease Obligations Earnings Per Share [Text Block] Earnings Per Share [Text Block] Statement of Comprehensive Income [Abstract] Net income from continuing operations Income (loss) from discontinued operations Net Income Other comprehensive income, net of tax Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax [Abstract] Foreign currency translation adjustments Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Foreign Currency Transaction and Translation Adjustment, Net of Tax, Portion Attributable to Parent [Abstract] Foreign currency translation adjustments arising during period Less: Reclassification adjustments for loss on sale of an investment in a foreign entity recognized in Other income, net Foreign currency translation adjustments Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Foreign Currency Transaction and Translation Adjustment, before Tax Pension and post-retirement benefit plans Other Comprehensive (Income) Loss, Pension and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans, Adjustment, Net of Tax [Abstract] Pension and post-retirement benefit plans adjustments during the period Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Pension and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans, Net Unamortized Gain (Loss) Arising During Period, before Tax Amortization of actuarial loss, prior service cost and transition obligation Total pension and post-retirement benefit plans, before tax Other Comprehensive (Income) Loss, Pension and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans, Adjustment, before Tax, Portion Attributable to Parent Tax expense Other Comprehensive (Income) Loss, Pension and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans, Tax Pension and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans, Net of Tax Other Comprehensive (Income) Loss, Pension and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans, Adjustment, Net of Tax Unrealized gain (loss) on available-for-sale securities Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Available-for-sale Securities Adjustment, Net of Tax, Portion Attributable to Parent [Abstract] Unrealized holding gain (loss) arising during period Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Unrealized Holding Gain (Loss) on Securities Arising During Period, before Tax Reclassification adjustments for gain included in Other income, net Total unrealized gain (loss) on available for-sale securities, before tax Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Available-for-sale Securities Adjustment, before Tax, Portion Attributable to Parent Tax benefit (expense) Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Available-for-sale Securities, Tax, Portion Attributable to Parent Total unrealized gain (loss) on available for-sale securities, net of tax Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Available-for-sale Securities Adjustment, Net of Tax, Portion Attributable to Parent Change in unrealized cash flow hedging Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Derivatives Qualifying as Hedges, Net of Tax, Portion Attributable to Parent [Abstract] Unrealized cash flow hedging (loss) gain arising during the period Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Unrealized Gain (Loss) on Derivatives Arising During Period, before Tax Loss reclassified into Product Sales Total unrealized loss (gain) on cash-flow hedging, before tax Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Derivatives Qualifying as Hedges, before Tax, Portion Attributable to Parent Tax expense Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Derivatives Qualifying as Hedges, Tax, Portion Attributable to Parent Total unrealized gain (loss) on cash-flow hedging, net of tax Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Derivatives Qualifying as Hedges, Net of Tax, Portion Attributable to Parent Other comprehensive loss, net of tax Comprehensive income Less: Comprehensive income attributable to noncontrolling interest Comprehensive income attributable to common shareowners Inventory Disclosure [Abstract] Raw materials Inventory, Raw Materials, Net of Reserves Work-in-process Inventory, Work in Process, Net of Reserves Finished goods Inventory, Finished Goods, Net of Reserves Contracts in progress Inventory for Long-term Contracts or Programs, Gross Inventory before payments and billings Inventory before payments and billings Carrying amount (lower of cost or market) as of the balance sheet date of inventories, including those associated with long-term contracts or programs, before payments and billings. Progress payments, secured by lien, on U.S. Government contracts Progress Payments Netted Against Inventory For Long-Term US Government Contracts Or Programs Amount of advances received from U.S. Government customers under long-term contracts which have been offset against inventory accounts at the balance sheet date. Billings on contracts in progress Progress Payments Netted Against Inventory For Long-Term Contracts Or Programs Excluding Government Amount of advances received from customers, excluding U.S. Government customers, under long-term contracts which have been offset against inventory accounts at the balance sheet date. Inventories and contracts in progress, net Inventory, Net Inventory, Current [Table] Inventory, Current [Table] Inventory [Line Items] Inventory [Line Items] Other Inventory, Capitalized Costs, Gross Other Inventory, Capitalized Costs, Gross Inventory Costs in Excess of Average Cost Per Unit Inventory Costs in Excess of Average Cost Per Unit Inventory costs in excess of the projected average cost per unit that are capitalized on a contract-by-contract basis. Segment Reporting [Abstract] Schedule of Segment Reporting Information, by Segment [Table Text Block] Schedule of Segment Reporting Information, by Segment [Table Text Block] Statement of Financial Position [Abstract] Cash and cash equivalents Accounts receivable, net Receivables, Net, Current Inventories and contracts in progress, net Other assets, current Other Assets, Current Total Current Assets Assets, Current Customer financing assets Notes, Loans and Financing Receivable, Net, Noncurrent Future income tax benefits Deferred Tax Assets, Net of Valuation Allowance, Noncurrent Fixed assets Property, Plant and Equipment, Gross Less: Accumulated depreciation Accumulated Depreciation, Depletion and Amortization, Property, Plant, and Equipment Fixed assets, net Property, Plant and Equipment, Net Goodwill Intangible assets, net Intangible Assets, Net (Excluding Goodwill) Other assets Other Assets, Noncurrent Total Assets Assets Short-term borrowings Accounts payable Accounts Payable, Current Accrued liabilities Accrued Liabilities, Current Long-term debt currently due Total Current Liabilities Liabilities, Current Long-term debt Future pension and postretirement benefit obligations Pension and Other Postretirement Defined Benefit Plans, Liabilities, Noncurrent Other long-term liabilities Other Liabilities, Noncurrent Total Liabilities Liabilities Commitments and contingent liabilities (Note 15) Commitments and Contingencies Redeemable noncontrolling interest Temporary Equity, Carrying Amount, Including Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interests Common Stock Common Stocks, Including Additional Paid in Capital Treasury Stock Treasury Stock, Value Retained earnings Retained Earnings (Accumulated Deficit) Unearned ESOP shares Unearned ESOP Shares Accumulated other comprehensive loss Total Shareowners' Equity Noncontrolling interest Total Equity Total Liabilities and Equity Liabilities and Equity Schedule of Financing Receivable, Recorded Investment, Credit Quality Indicator [Table] Schedule of Financing Receivable, Recorded Investment, Credit Quality Indicator [Table] Class of Financing Receivable [Axis] Class of Financing Receivable, Type [Axis] Class of Financing Receivable [Domain] Class of Financing Receivable, Type [Domain] Long-term trade accounts receivable [Member] Long-term Trade Accounts Receivable Financing Receivable [Member] Class of financing receivables related to aerospace long-term trade accounts financing receivables. Notes And leases receivable [Member] Notes and Leases Receivable Financing Receivable [Member] Class of financing receivables related to aerospace notes and leases financing receivables. Financing Receivable, Recorded Investment [Line Items] Financing Receivable, Recorded Investment [Line Items] Total long-term receivables Financing Receivable, Net Disposal Groups, Including Discontinued Operations, Disclosure [Text Block] Disposal Groups, Including Discontinued Operations, Disclosure [Text Block] Organization, Consolidation and Presentation of Financial Statements [Abstract] Schedule of Variable Interest Entities [Table] Schedule of Variable Interest Entities [Table] Legal Entity [Axis] Legal Entity [Axis] Entity [Domain] Entity [Domain] Variable Interest Entity, Primary Beneficiary Variable Interest Entity, Primary Beneficiary [Member] Variable Interest Entity [Line Items] Schedule of Variable Interest Entities [Table Text Block] Schedule of Variable Interest Entities [Table Text Block] Schedule of Short-term Debt [Table] Schedule of Short-term Debt [Table] Short-term Debt [Line Items] Short-term Debt [Line Items] Commercial paper Commercial Paper Other borrowings Other Short-term Borrowings Total short-term borrowings Income Tax Uncertainties [Abstract] Significant Change In Unrecognized Tax Benefits Is Reasonably Possible [Table] Significant Change in Unrecognized Tax Benefits is Reasonably Possible [Table] Range [Axis] Range [Axis] Range [Domain] Range [Domain] Minimum [Member] Minimum [Member] Maximum [Member] Maximum [Member] Significant Change In Unrecognized Tax Benefits Is Reasonably Possible [Line Items] Significant Change in Unrecognized Tax Benefits is Reasonably Possible [Line Items] Decrease in Unrecognized Tax Benefits is Reasonably Possible, Estimated Range of Change Decrease in Unrecognized Tax Benefits is Reasonably Possible Inventories and Contracts in Progress [Text Block] Inventory Disclosure [Text Block] Net income attributable to common shareowners: Net Income (Loss) Attributable to Parent [Abstract] Net income from continuing operations Income from discontinued operations Net income attributable to common shareowners Basic weighted average number of shares outstanding Weighted Average Number of Shares Outstanding, Basic Stock awards and equity units Incremental Common Shares Attributable to Dilutive Effect of Share-based Payment Arrangements Diluted weighted average number of shares outstanding Weighted Average Number of Shares Outstanding, Diluted Net income from continuing operations Income from discontinued operations Discontinued Operation, Income (Loss) from Discontinued Operation, Net of Tax, Per Basic Share Net income from continuing operations Income from discontinued operations Discontinued Operation, Income (Loss) from Discontinued Operation, Net of Tax, Per Diluted Share Net income attributable to common shareowners Antidilutive Securities Excluded from Computation of Earnings Per Share, Amount Antidilutive Securities Excluded from Computation of Earnings Per Share, Amount Debt, Weighted Average Interest Rate Debt, Weighted Average Interest Rate Average Years of Maturity of Long Term Debt Average Years of Maturity of Long Term Debt Average Years of Maturity of Long Term Debt Other Current Assets [Member] Other Current Assets [Member] Other Current Liabilities [Member] Other Current Liabilities [Member] Other Noncurrent Assets [Member] Other Noncurrent Assets [Member] Other Noncurrent Liabilities [Member] Other Noncurrent Liabilities [Member] Variable Interest Entities [Axis] Variable Interest Entities [Axis] Variable Interest Entity, Classification [Domain] Variable Interest Entity, Classification [Domain] IAE International Aero Engines AG International Aero Engines AG [Member] International Aero Engines LLC [Member] International Aero Engines LLC [Member] International Aero Engines LLC [Member] Variable Interest Entity [Line Items] Variable Interest Entity, Methodology for Determining Whether Entity is Primary Beneficiary Variable Interest Entity, Methodology for Determining Whether Entity is Primary Beneficiary Variable Interest Entity, Qualitative or Quantitative Information, Ownership Percentage Variable Interest Entity, Qualitative or Quantitative Information, Ownership Percentage Total assets Variable Interest Entity, Consolidated, Carrying Amount, Assets Total liabilities Variable Interest Entity, Consolidated, Carrying Amount, Liabilities Document and Entity Information [Abstract] Document Type Document Type Document Period End Date Document Period End Date Amendment Flag Amendment Flag Document Fiscal Year Focus Document Fiscal Year Focus Document Fiscal Period Focus Document Fiscal Period Focus Current Fiscal Year End Date Current Fiscal Year End Date Entity Registrant Name Entity Registrant Name Entity Central Index Key Entity Central Index Key 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 Entity Public Float Entity Public Float Entity Common Stock, Shares Outstanding Entity Common Stock, Shares Outstanding Guarantees [Text Block] Guarantees [Text Block] Schedule of Defined Benefit Plans Disclosures [Table Text Block] Schedule of Defined Benefit Plans Disclosures [Table Text Block] Derivative Financial Instruments [Text Block] Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities Disclosure [Text Block] Financing Receivable Credit Quality Indicators [Table Text Block] Financing Receivable Credit Quality Indicators [Table Text Block] Accelerated Share Repurchases [Table] Accelerated Share Repurchases [Table] Accelerated Share Repurchases, Date [Axis] Accelerated Share Repurchases, Date [Axis] Accelerated Share Repurchases, Date [Domain] Accelerated Share Repurchases, Date [Domain] November 11, 2015 ASR [Member] November 11, 2015 ASR [Member] November 11, 2015 Accelerated Share Repurchase agreement (ASR) January 19, 2016 settlement of ASR [Member] January 19, 2016 settlement of ASR [Member] January 19, 2016 settlement of November 11, 2015 ASR [Member] September 14 and 15, 2016 final settlement of ASR [Member] September 14 and 15, 2016 final settlement of ASR [Member] September 14 and 15, 2016 final settlement of ASR [Member] Accelerated Share Repurchases [Line Items] Accelerated Share Repurchases [Line Items] ASR Aggregate Purchase Price ASR Aggregate Purchase Price Aggregate purchase price to repurchase shares of common stock per the ASR agreement Stock Repurchased During Period, Shares Stock Repurchased During Period, Shares Segment Financial Data [Text Block] Segment Reporting Disclosure [Text Block] Acquisitions, Dispositions, Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets [Text Block] Business Combination Disclosure [Text Block] Long-Term Financing Receivables [Text Block] Financing Receivables [Text Block] Introduction of Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements Organization, Consolidation and Presentation of Financial Statements Disclosure [Text Block] Schedule of Stockholders Equity [Table Text Block] Schedule of Stockholders Equity [Table Text Block] Schedule of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Table Text Block] Schedule of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Table Text Block] Shareowners' Equity and Noncontrolling Interest [Text Block] Stockholders' Equity Note Disclosure [Text Block] Restructuring and Other Costs [Text Block] Restructuring and Related Activities Disclosure [Text Block] Borrowings and Lines of Credit [Text Block] Debt Disclosure [Text Block] Schedule of Inventory, Current [Table Text Block] Schedule of Inventory, Current [Table Text Block] Variable Interest Entity Disclosure [Text Block] Variable Interest Entity Disclosure [Text Block] Fair Value Disclosures [Text Block] Fair Value Disclosures [Text Block] Schedule of Goodwill [Table Text Block] Schedule of Goodwill [Table Text Block] Intangible Assets Disclosure [Table Text Block] Schedule of Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Table Text Block] Schedule of Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Future Amortization Expense [Table Text Block] Schedule of Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Future Amortization Expense [Table Text Block] Schedule of Segment Reporting Information, by Segment [Table] Schedule of Segment Reporting Information, by Segment [Table] General corporate expenses [Member] General corporate expenses [Member] Segment Reporting Information [Line Items] Segment Reporting Information [Line Items] Net Sales Operating profit Operating profit margin Operating Profit Margin The consolidated operating profit margin.