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. Receivables [Abstract] 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 Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities Disclosure [Abstract] Derivative Financial Instruments [Text Block] Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities Disclosure [Text Block] Commitments and Contingencies Disclosure [Abstract] Contingent Liabilities [Text Block] Commitments and Contingencies Disclosure [Text Block] Business Combination, Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired, Goodwill, and Liabilities Assumed, Net [Abstract] 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] 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] Income from operations Disposal Group, Including Discontinued Operation, Operating Income (Loss) Gain (loss) 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 (loss) 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 Discontinued Operations and Disposal Groups [Abstract] Statement [Table] Statement [Table] Operating Activities [Axis] Operating Activities [Axis] Operating Activities [Domain] Operating Activities [Domain] Discontinued Operations [Member] Discontinued Operations [Member] Income Statement, Balance Sheet and Additional Disclosures by Disposal Groups, Including Discontinued Operations [Line Items] Income Statement, Balance Sheet and Additional Disclosures by Disposal Groups, Including Discontinued Operations [Line Items] Pension curtailment Defined Benefit Plan, Recognized Net Gain (Loss) Due to Settlements and Curtailments 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 Operations: Net sales Disposal Group, Including Discontinued Operation, Revenue Discontinued Operations: Costs of sales Disposal Group, Including Discontinued Operation, Costs of Goods Sold Discontinued Operations: Research and development Disposal Group, Including Discontinued Operation, Other Expense Discontinued Operations: Selling, general and administrative Disposal Group, Including Discontinued Operation, General and Administrative Expense Discontinued Operations: Other Income, net Disposal Group, Including Discontinued Operation, Other Income Discontinued Operations: Income from operations Discontinued Operation, Gain (Loss) on Disposal of Discontinued Operation, Net of Tax [Abstract] Discontinued Operations: (Loss) gain on disposal Discontinued Operations: Income tax benefit (expense) Discontinued Operations: Income (loss) from discontinued operations Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Discontinued Operations [Abstract] Net cash outflows from discontinued operations Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Discontinued Operations Inventory Disclosure [Abstract] Schedule of Inventory, Current [Table Text Block] Schedule of Inventory, Current [Table Text Block] 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] 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 Commercial paper Commercial Paper Other borrowings Other Short-term Borrowings Total short-term borrowings Short-term Debt Organization, Consolidation and Presentation of Financial Statements [Abstract] Introduction of Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements Organization, Consolidation and Presentation of Financial Statements Disclosure [Text Block] Fair Value Disclosures [Abstract] Fair Value Disclosures [Text Block] Fair Value Disclosures [Text Block] Restructuring and Related Activities [Abstract] Restructuring and Other Costs [Text Block] Restructuring and Related Activities Disclosure [Text Block] 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 Restructuring Cost and Reserve [Line Items] 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] 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 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. IAE collaboration [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) 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] 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] Statement of Stockholders' Equity [Abstract] Schedule of Subsidiary or Equity Method Investee [Table] Schedule of Subsidiary or Equity Method Investee [Table] Subsidiary or Equity Method Investee [Line Items] Subsidiary or Equity Method Investee [Line Items] (Purchase) / sale 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 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] 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] Eliminations and other [Member] Eliminations and other [Member] Segment member representing both Corporate functions and intersegment eliminations 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] Other Expense [Member] Other Expense [Member] 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 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] Change in Accounting Estimate by Type [Axis] Change in Accounting Estimate by Type [Axis] Change in Accounting Estimate, Type [Domain] Change in Accounting Estimate, Type [Domain] Change in Assumptions for Pension Plans [Member] Change in Assumptions for Pension Plans [Member] Service cost Interest Cost Interest Expense [Member] 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] United States Pension Plan of US Entity [Member] United States Pension Plan of US Entity [Member] 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 Total net periodic benefit (income) cost Defined Benefit Plan, Net Periodic Benefit Cost Total net periodic benefit (income) cost Discount rate Defined Benefit Plan, Assumptions Used Calculating Net Periodic Benefit Cost, Discount Rate Change in Accounting Estimate, Description Change in Accounting Estimate, Description Defined Benefit Plan, Settlements, Benefit Obligation Defined Benefit Plan, Settlements, Benefit Obligation Defined Benefit Plan, Settlements, Plan Assets Defined Benefit Plan, Settlements, Plan Assets Schedule of Variable Interest Entities [Table] Schedule of Variable Interest Entities [Table] Legal Entity [Axis] Legal Entity [Axis] Entity [Domain] Entity [Domain] IAE International Aero Engines AG Variable Interest Entity, Primary Beneficiary [Member] Variable Interest Entity [Line Items] 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 Current assets Assets, Current Noncurrent assets Assets, Noncurrent Total assets Variable Interest Entity, Consolidated, Carrying Amount, Assets Current liabilities Liabilities, Current Noncurrent liabilities Liabilities, Noncurrent Total liabilities Variable Interest Entity, Consolidated, Carrying Amount, Liabilities Schedule of Defined Benefit Plans Disclosures [Table Text Block] Schedule of Defined Benefit Plans Disclosures [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 1.125% Due 2021 [Member] Note 1.125% Due 2021 [Member] Debt security issued by a foreign 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 1.875% Due 2026 [Member] Notes 1.875% Due 2026 [Member] Debt security issued by a foreign corporate business entity with a promise of repayment. Debt Instrument [Line Items] Debt Instrument [Line Items] Debt Instrument, Issuance Date Debt Instrument, Issuance Date Proceeds from Issuance of Debt Proceeds from Issuance of Debt Debt Instrument, Interest Rate, Stated Percentage Debt Instrument, Interest Rate, Stated Percentage Debt Instrument, Maturity Date, Description Debt Instrument, Maturity Date, Description 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. Noncash or Part Noncash Acquisition, Debt Assumed Noncash or Part Noncash Acquisition, Debt Assumed Inventories and Contracts in Progress [Text Block] Inventory Disclosure [Text Block] Income Tax Disclosure [Abstract] Income Tax Disclosure [Text Block] Income Tax Disclosure [Text Block] Disposal Groups, Including Discontinued Operations [Table Text Block] Disposal Groups, Including Discontinued Operations [Table Text Block] Statement of Comprehensive Income [Abstract] Net income from continuing operations Income (loss) from discontinued operations Net Income Net Income (Loss), Including Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest 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 (expense) benefit 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 benefit (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 Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax Comprehensive income Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax, Including Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest Less: Comprehensive income attributable to noncontrolling interest Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax, Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest Comprehensive income attributable to common shareowners Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax, Attributable to Parent 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 Payments for (Proceeds from) Derivative Instrument, Investing Activities Earnings Per Share [Abstract] Net income attributable to common shareowners: Net Income (Loss) Attributable to Parent [Abstract] Net income from continuing operations Income (loss) 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 (loss) from discontinued operations Discontinued Operation, Income (Loss) from Discontinued Operation, Net of Tax, Per Basic Share Net income from continuing operations Income (loss) 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 Subsequent Events [Abstract] Subsequent Event [Table] Subsequent Event [Table] Range [Axis] Range [Axis] Range [Domain] Range [Domain] Minimum [Member] Minimum [Member] Maximum [Member] Maximum [Member] Future Pension Actions [Axis] Future Pension Actions [Axis] Future Pension Actions [Axis] Future Pension Actions [Domain] Future Pension Actions [Domain] Pension de-risking actions, including lump sum payments, purchase of annuity contracts, and other. Pension de-risking actions [Member] Pension de-risking actions [Member] Pension de-risking actions [Member] Purchase of Annuity Contract [Member] Purchase of Annuity Contract [Member] Purchase of a group annuity contract Lump Sum Payments [Member] Lump Sum Payments [Member] One-time lump sum distribution offered to certain US employees or beneficiaries of defined benefit pension plans Subsequent Event Type [Axis] Subsequent Event Type [Axis] Subsequent Event Type [Domain] Subsequent Event Type [Domain] Subsequent Event [Member] Subsequent Event [Member] Subsequent Event [Line Items] Subsequent Event [Line Items] Subsequent Event, Description Subsequent Event, Description Subsequent Event, Date Subsequent Event, Date Expected pre-tax settlement charge 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] ASU 2016-09 [Member] ASU 2016-09 [Member] This ASU is intended to simplify several aspects of the accounting for share-based payment transactions, including the income tax consequences, classification of awards as either equity or liabilities, and classification on the statement of cash flows. New Accounting Pronouncement, Early Adoption, Effect [Member] New Accounting Pronouncement, Early Adoption, Effect [Member] 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 New Accounting Pronouncement or Change in Accounting Principle, Description of Transition Method New Accounting Pronouncement or Change in Accounting Principle, Description of Transition Method Income Tax Expense (Benefit) Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Operating Activities Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Operating Activities Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Financing Activities Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Financing Activities Stockholders' Equity Note [Abstract] 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 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 Total comprehensive income for the period, Shareowners' Equity Total comprehensive income for the period, Noncontrolling Interest Total comprehensive income for the period, Total Equity Common Stock issued - equity unit remarketing Stock Issued During Period, Value, Other 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 Acquisition of noncontrolling interest Noncontrolling Interest, Increase from Business Combination Disposition of noncontrolling interest Noncontrolling Interest, Decrease from Redemptions or Purchase of Interests Other Stockholders' Equity, Other Shareowners' Equity, end of period Noncontrolling interest, end of period Total Equity, end of period 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] Accounting Standards Update 2014-09 [Member] Accounting Standards Update 2014-09 [Member] 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 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 2016-15 [Member] ASU 2016-15 [Member] ASU reduces diversity in presentation and classification of certain cash receipts and cash payments on eight specific cash flow issues. The provisions of this ASU are effective for years beginning after December 15, 2017, with early adoption permitted. Segment Reporting [Abstract] Schedule of Segment Reporting Information, by Segment [Table] Schedule of Segment Reporting Information, by Segment [Table] Total Segments [Member] Total Segments [Member] General corporate expenses [Member] General corporate expenses [Member] Segment Reporting Information [Line Items] Segment Reporting Information [Line Items] Total net sales Operating profit Operating profit margin Operating Profit Margin The consolidated operating profit margin. Segment Financial Data [Text Block] Segment Reporting Disclosure [Text Block] 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. Borrowings and Lines of Credit [Text Block] Debt Disclosure [Text Block] Financing Receivable Credit Quality Indicators [Table Text Block] Financing Receivable Credit Quality Indicators [Table Text Block] Loss Contingencies [Table] Loss Contingencies [Table] Litigation Case [Axis] Litigation Case [Axis] Litigation Case [Domain] Litigation Case [Domain] Department of Justice Lawsuit Against Pratt and Whitney [Member] Department of Justice Lawsuit Against Pratt and Whitney [Member] 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] Asbestos Matter [Member] Asbestos Matter [Member] Asbestos Matter [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 Actions Taken By Court Arbitrator Or Mediator Loss Contingency, Actions Taken by Court, Arbitrator or Mediator Loss Contingency Actions Taken By Plaintiff And Defendant Loss Contingency Actions Taken By Plaintiff And Defendant Describe actions taken by the plaintiff and defendant in the legal matter. Loss Contingency, Additional Actions Taken by Court, Arbitrator or Mediator Loss Contingency, Additional Actions Taken by Court, Arbitrator or Mediator Loss Contingency, Additional Actions Taken by Court, Arbitrator or Mediator Loss Contingency Damages Sought Loss Contingency, Damages Sought Loss Contingency, Period of Occurrence Loss Contingency, Period of Occurrence Loss Contingency Actions Taken By Defendant Loss Contingency, Actions Taken by Defendant Loss Contingency Settlement Agreement Date Loss Contingency, Settlement Agreement, Date Loss Contingency, Settlement Agreement, Terms Loss Contingency, Settlement Agreement, Terms Loss Contingency, Damages Awarded, Value Loss Contingency, Damages Awarded, Value 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 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] March 13, 2015 ASR [Member] March 13, 2015 ASR [Member] March 13, 2015 Accelerated Share Repurchase agreement (ASR) July 31, 2015 settlement of ASR [Member] July 31, 2015 settlement of ASR [Member] July 31, 2015 settlement of March 13, 2015 ASR [Member] 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] Accelerated Share Repurchases, Cash or Stock Settlement Accelerated Share Repurchases, Cash or Stock Settlement 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 Accelerated Share Repurchases, Final Price Paid Per Share Accelerated Share Repurchases, Final Price Paid Per Share Stock Issued During Period, Value, Other Stock Issued During Period, Shares, Other Stock Issued During Period, Shares, Other Income Tax Uncertainties [Abstract] Income Tax Contingency [Table] Income Tax Contingency [Table] Nature of Uncertainty [Axis] Nature of Uncertainty [Axis] Significant Change in Unrecognized Tax Benefits is Reasonably Possible, Nature of Uncertainty [Domain] Significant Change in Unrecognized Tax Benefits is Reasonably Possible, Nature of Uncertainty [Domain] Settlement with Taxing Authority [Member] Settlement with Taxing Authority [Member] UTC Parent Company [Member] Income Tax Authority, Name [Axis] Income Tax Authority, Name [Axis] Income Tax Authority, Name [Domain] Income Tax Authority, Name [Domain] Internal Revenue Service (IRS) [Member] Internal Revenue Service (IRS) [Member] Tax Period [Axis] Tax Period [Axis] Tax Period [Domain] Tax Period [Domain] Tax Year 2012 [Member] Tax Year 2012 [Member] Tax Year 2011 [Member] Tax Year 2011 [Member] Income Tax Contingency [Line Items] Income Tax Contingency [Line Items] Other Nonrecurring Gain Other Nonrecurring Gain Open Tax Year Open Tax Year Income Tax Examination, Liability (Refund) Adjustment from Settlement with Taxing Authority Income Tax Examination, Liability (Refund) Adjustment from Settlement with Taxing Authority Schedule of Goodwill [Table] Schedule of Goodwill [Table] 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 Guarantees [Text Block] Guarantees [Text Block] Pension and Other Postretirement Benefits Disclosure [Text Block] Pension and Other Postretirement Benefits Disclosure [Text Block] Acquisitions, Dispositions, Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets [Text Block] Business Combination Disclosure [Text Block] Amortization of Intangible Assets Amortization of Intangible Assets Amortization Expense, Remaining 2016 Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Amortization Expense, Remainder of Fiscal Year Amortization Expense, 2017 Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Amortization Expense, Next Twelve Months Amortization Expense, 2018 Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Amortization Expense, Year Two Amortization Expense, 2019 Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Amortization Expense, Year Three Amortization Expense, 2020 Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Amortization Expense, Year Four Amortization Expense, 2021 Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Amortization Expense, Year Five Shareowners' Equity and Noncontrolling Interest [Text Block] Stockholders' Equity Note Disclosure [Text Block] Product Warranty Liability [Table] Product Warranty Liability [Table] Discontinued Operations, Disposed of by Sale [Member] Discontinued Operations, Disposed of by Sale [Member] 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 September 30 Long-Term Financing Receivables [Text Block] Financing Receivables [Text Block] Significant Change In Unrecognized Tax Benefits Is Reasonably Possible [Table] Significant Change in Unrecognized Tax Benefits is Reasonably Possible [Table] 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 Statement of Financial Position [Abstract] Cash and cash equivalents Cash and Cash Equivalents, at Carrying Value Accounts receivable, net Receivables, Net, Current Inventories and contracts in progress, net Other assets, current Other Assets, Current Total Current Assets 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 Long-term Debt and Capital Lease Obligations, Current Total Current Liabilities Long-term debt Long-term Debt and Capital Lease Obligations 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 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] 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 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 Schedule of Segment Reporting Information, by Segment [Table Text Block] Schedule of Segment Reporting Information, by Segment [Table Text Block] Earnings Per Share [Text Block] Earnings Per Share [Text Block] 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 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. Disposal Groups, Including Discontinued Operations, Disclosure [Text Block] Disposal Groups, Including Discontinued Operations, Disclosure [Text Block] Schedule of Earnings Per Share, Basic and Diluted [Table Text Block] Schedule of Earnings Per Share, Basic and Diluted [Table Text Block] 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 Proceeds from Divestiture of Businesses and Interests in Affiliates Increase in customer financing assets, net Payments to Acquire Finance Receivables Increase in collaboration intangible assets Payments to Acquire Intangible Assets (Payments) receipts from settlements of derivative contracts 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] Issuance of long-term debt, net Proceeds from (Repayments of) Long-term Debt and Capital Securities (Decrease) increase in short-term borrowings, net Proceeds from (Repayments of) Short-term Debt Proceeds from Common Stock issuance - equity unit remarketing Proceeds from Other Equity 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 financing activities of continuing operations Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Financing Activities, Continuing Operations Discontinued Operations: Net cash used in operating activities Cash Provided by (Used in) Operating Activities, Discontinued Operations Net cash provided by (used in) investing activities Cash Provided by (Used in) Investing Activities, Discontinued Operations Net cash used in financing activities Cash Provided by (Used in) Financing Activities, Discontinued Operations Net cash flows 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 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 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 Variable Interest Entities [Table Text Block] Schedule of Variable Interest Entities [Table Text Block] Notes 5.375% Due 2017 [Member] Notes 5.375% Due 2017 [Member] Debt security issued by a domestic corporate business entity with a promise of repayment. 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. Floating rate notes due 2018 [Member] Junior subordinated 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. 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. Notes 6.125% Due 2019 [Member] Notes 6.125% Due 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 4.500% Due 2020 [Member] Notes 4.500% Due 2020 [Member] Debt security issued by a domestic corporate business entity with a promise of repayment. Notes 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. Note 1.125% Due 2021 [Member] 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 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 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. 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, net of current portion New Accounting Pronouncements, Policy [Policy Text Block] New Accounting Pronouncements, Policy [Policy Text Block] Variable Interest Entity Disclosure [Text Block] Variable Interest Entity Disclosure [Text Block]