Amendment Description Amendment Flag Current Fiscal Year End Date Document Period End Date Document Type Entity [Domain] Entity Well-known Seasoned Issuer Entity Voluntary Filers Entity Current Reporting Status Entity Filer Category Entity Public Float Entity Registrant Name Entity Central Index Key Entity Common Stock, Shares Outstanding Document Fiscal Year Focus Document Fiscal Period Focus Legal Entity [Axis] Accounting Changes and Error Corrections [Text Block] Recent Accounting Pronouncements Amount of first costs for environmental remediation costs to be born by reporting entity per acquisition agreement Accrual for Environmental Loss Contingencies, Component Amount Accrual for Environmental Loss Contingencies, Material Components Description of first costs for environmental remediation costs to be born by reporting entity per acquisition agreement Recognized remaining undiscounted gross environmental remediation liability Accrual for Environmental Loss Contingencies, Gross Estimated environmental reserve Accrual for Environmental Loss Contingencies Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Accumulated Amortization Accumulated amortization Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax Balance at beginning of period Balance at end of period Accumulated Depreciation, Depletion and Amortization, Property, Plant, and Equipment Accumulated depreciation Payments to Acquire Businesses, Net of Cash Acquired Cash paid in connection with acquisitions, net of cash acquired Other Payments to Acquire Businesses Purchase price: Cash deposit Payments to Acquire Productive Assets Additions to property and equipment Amortization of Deferred Hedge Gains Non-cash amortization of terminated interest rate and foreign currency hedging instruments Depreciation Depreciation expense Allowance for Doubtful Accounts Receivable, Current Allowance for doubtful accounts receivable Allowance for Doubtful Accounts, Current [Member] Allowance for Doubtful Accounts Amortization of Intangible Assets Amortization expense for finite-lived intangible assets Cash Flow Hedge Gain (Loss) Reclassified to Earnings, Net Gain to be reclassified to earnings during the year Probable recoveries from insurers and third parties recorded as a receivable Recorded Third-Party Environmental Recoveries Receivable Probable recoveries from insurers, net of deductibles Asset Impairment Charges [Abstract] Impairment of Long-Lived Assets Asset Impairment Charges Impairment charges - predominantly related to assets taken out of service Asset Retirement Obligation [Abstract] Asset Retirement Obligations Fair value of asset retirement obligations Asset Retirement Obligation CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS Business Acquisition, Contingent Consideration, at Fair Value Purchase price: Fair value of contingent consideration as of the acquisition date Business Acquisition, Contingent Consideration, Potential Cash Payment Potential contingent consideration Business Acquisition, Cost of Acquired Entity [Abstract] Business acquisition, purchase price Business Acquisition, Cost of Acquired Entity, Purchase Price Purchase price Total purchase price Business Acquisition, Cost of Acquired Entity, Transaction Costs Purchase price: Transaction costs Business Acquisition, Equity Interest Issued or Issuable, Basis for Determining Value Purchase price: Valuation method used for price per common unit Business Acquisition, Equity Interest Issued or Issuable, Value Assigned Equivalent value of PAA common units issued at closing Business Acquisition, Percentage of Voting Interests Acquired Ownership interest (as a percent) Percentage of ownership acquired (as a percent) Business Acquisition, Purchase Price Allocation [Abstract] Business acquisition, allocation of fair value of assets and liabilities Purchase price allocation: Intangible assets Business Acquisition, Purchase Price Allocation, Amortizable Intangible Assets Intangible assets Purchase price allocation: Total Business Acquisition, Purchase Price Allocation, Assets Acquired (Liabilities Assumed), Net Cash acquired Business Acquisition, Purchase Price Allocation, Current Assets, Cash and Cash Equivalents Current assets Business Acquisition, Purchase Price Allocation, Current Assets Business Acquisition, Purchase Price Allocation, Goodwill Amount Purchase price allocation: Goodwill Goodwill Business Acquisition, Purchase Price Allocation, Liabilities Assumed Bonds acquired in connection with Southern Pines Acquisition Purchase price allocation: Debt Business Acquisition, Purchase Price Allocation, Noncurrent Liabilities, Long-term Debt Purchase price allocation: Property, plant and equipment Business Acquisition, Purchase Price Allocation, Property, Plant and Equipment Property and equipment, net Business Acquisition [Axis] Business Acquisition [Line Items] Business acquisition Dispositions Schedule of Business Acquisitions, by Acquisition [Table] Cash and Cash Equivalents, at Carrying Value [Abstract] Cash and Cash Equivalents Cash and Cash Equivalents, at Carrying Value Cash and cash equivalents Cash and cash equivalents, beginning of period Cash and cash equivalents, end of period Interest Paid, Net Cash paid for interest, net of amounts capitalized Increase (Decrease) in Accounts Payable and Accrued Liabilities Accounts payable and other current liabilities Environmental Expense and Liabilities [Abstract] Environmental Increase (Decrease) in Inventories Inventory Increase (Decrease) in Operating Capital Changes in assets and liabilities, net of acquisitions Increase (Decrease) in Due to Related Parties, Current Due to related parties Commitments and Contingencies Disclosure [Text Block] Commitments and Contingencies Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax, Attributable to Parent Comprehensive income attributable to Plains Percentage of major customer revenue (as a percent) Concentration Risk, Percentage Concentration Risk by Type [Axis] Major Customers and Concentration of Credit Risk Concentration Risk [Line Items] Concentration Risk [Table] Concentration Risk Disclosure [Text Block] Major Customers and Concentration of Credit Risk Inventory Write-down Non-cash charges related to the writedown of inventory Cost of Purchased Oil and Gas Crude oil purchases Current Income Tax Expense (Benefit) Current income tax expense Total current tax (benefit)/expense CURRENT LIABILITIES Liabilities, Current [Abstract] Liabilities, Current Total current liabilities Total current liabilities Advance cash payments received from third parties to mitigate credit risk Customer Advances, Current Customer Concentration Risk [Member] Consolidated revenue Customer Relationships [Member] Customer contracts and relationships Debt, Current Short-term debt Total short-term debt Debt and Capital Lease Obligations Total debt Debt Disclosure [Text Block] Debt Long-term Debt, Gross Term Loans, amounts oustanding Debt Instrument, Covenant Compliance Debt Covenant Compliance Debt Instrument, Face Amount Debt instrument face value Debt Instrument, Interest Rate at Period End Term Loans, interest rate (as a percent) Debt instrument, interest rate (as a percent) Debt Instrument, Interest Rate, Stated Percentage Debt Instrument [Axis] Debt Debt Instrument [Line Items] Payments of Debt Issuance Costs Debt issuance costs capitalized during the period Deferred Income Tax Expense (Benefit) Deferred income tax expense Total deferred tax (benefit)/expense Deferred income tax benefit Net deferred tax liabilities Deferred Tax Assets (Liabilities), Net Total deferred tax assets Deferred Tax Assets, Net Deferred Tax Assets, Tax Deferred Expense, Reserves and Accruals Book accruals in excess of current tax deductions Total deferred tax liabilities Deferred Tax Liabilities Derivative, Average Forward Exchange Rate Average exchange rate for outstanding foreign currency forward exchange contracts Derivative, Description of Variable Rate Basis Basis for variable interest rate Derivative, Fixed Interest Rate Rate of fixed interest to be received on interest rate swap (as a percent) Derivative, by Nature [Axis] Fair value of derivative instruments Derivative Instruments and Hedges, Noncurrent Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities Disclosure [Text Block] Derivatives and Risk Management Activities Derivative [Line Items] Derivative disclosures Derivative [Table] Business Combination Disclosure [Text Block] Acquisitions Disposal Groups, Including Discontinued Operations, Disclosure [Text Block] Disposal Groups, Including Discontinued Operations, Disclosure Proceeds from Divestiture of Businesses and Interests in Affiliates Net proceeds received by PNG from a third party for an ownership percentage in a joint venture Early Repayment of Senior Debt Early redemption of senior notes Loss on early redemption of senior notes Income (Loss) from Equity Method Investments Equity earnings in unconsolidated entities Equity in earnings of unconsolidated entities Effect of Exchange Rate on Cash and Cash Equivalents, Continuing Operations Effect of translation adjustment on cash Allocated Share-based Compensation Expense Equity compensation expense Share-based Compensation Equity compensation expense Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Shares Issued in Period Unit issuance (in units) Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Compensation Cost Expense and corresponding capital contribution recognized Revenue, Major Customer [Line Items] Major Customers and Concentration of Credit Risk Reserve for environmental liabilities, short-term Accrued Environmental Loss Contingencies, Current Reserve for environmental liabilities, long-term Accrued Environmental Loss Contingencies, Noncurrent Environmental Loss Contingency Disclosure [Text Block] Environmental Remediation Costs paid related to Rainbow Pipeline release Environmental Remediation Expense Equity Method Investments Investments in unconsolidated entities Equity Method Investment, Ownership Percentage Ownership interest (as a percent) Extinguishment of Debt [Axis] Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Average Useful Life Average Depreciable Life, (in years) Finite-Lived Intangible Assets by Major Class [Axis] Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items] Finite-Lived Intangible Assets Schedule of Finite-Lived Intangible Assets by Major Class [Table] Amortization expense for finite-lived intangible assets Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Amortization Expense Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Future Amortization Expense [Abstract] Estimated amortization expense related to finite-lived intangible assets for the next five years Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Future Amortization Expense Estimated amortization under the declining balance method Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Useful Life Estimated Useful Lives (in years) Foreign Currency Derivatives [Abstract] Currency Exchange Rate Risk Hedging: Foreign Currency Transaction [Abstract] Foreign Currency Transactions Future Amortization Expense, Year Five 2016 Future Amortization Expense, Year Four 2015 Future Amortization Expense, Year One 2012 Future Amortization Expense, Year Three 2014 Future Amortization Expense, Year Two 2013 Gain (Loss) on Sale of Property Plant Equipment Gain (loss) on sale of various property and equipment Gains (Losses) on Extinguishment of Debt Loss on early redemption of senior notes General and Administrative Expense General and administrative expenses General and administrative expenses Cash distributions paid to General Partner - 2% General Partner Distributions General Partners' Capital Account General partner Goodwill [Line Items] Goodwill disclosures Schedule of Goodwill [Table] Gross Profit Segment profit IPO IPO [Member] Impaired Assets to be Disposed of by Method Other than Sale, Amount of Impairment Loss Impairment charges - predominantly related to assets taken out of service Losses on impairment of assets Incentive Distribution, Distribution Cash distribution paid to General Partner - Incentive Incentive Distribution Made to Managing Member or General Partner [Axis] Schedule of Incentive Distribution Made to Managing Member or General Partner [Table] CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF OPERATIONS Income Tax Disclosure [Text Block] Income Taxes Income Taxes Paid, Net Cash paid for income taxes, net of amounts refunded Increase (Decrease) in Restricted Cash Change in restricted cash Restricted cash in escrow for acquisitions Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Gross Intangible assets Cost Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Net [Abstract] Intangible assets, useful life Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Net Net Interest Expense. Interest expense Interest expense Interest expense (net of capitalized interest of $9 and $5, respectively) Interest Rate Derivatives [Abstract] Interest Rate Risk Hedging Interest Rate Swap [Member] Interest Rate Swaps Inventory, Net Inventory Proceeds from Issuance of Senior Long-term Debt Proceeds from the issuance of senior notes Issuance of senior notes General partner ownership interest (as a percent) Limited Liability Company (LLC) or Limited Partnership (LP), Managing Member or General Partner, Ownership Interest Limited Liability Company (LLC) or Limited Partnership (LP), Members or Limited Partners, Ownership Interest Limited partner ownership interest (as a percent) Effective aggregate common ownership interest in the Partnership and its subsidiaries (as a percent) Interest held by principal owners (as a percent) Liabilities and Equity [Abstract] LIABILITIES AND PARTNERS' CAPITAL Liabilities and Equity Total liabilities and partners' capital Liabilities Total liabilities Limited Partners' Capital Account, Units Outstanding Common unitholders, units outstanding (in units) Balance (in units) Balance (in units) Limited Partners' Capital Account Common unitholders (161,318,749 and 155,376,937 units outstanding, respectively) Line of Credit, Current Credit Facility, Current Line of Credit Facility, Amount Outstanding Credit facility agreement on acquisition Borrowings outstanding Line of Credit Facility, Current Borrowing Capacity Borrowing capacity Line of Credit Facility, Initiation Date Initiation Date Line of Credit Facility, Interest Rate at Period End Credit facility, interest rate (as a percent) Line of Credit Facility, Maximum Borrowing Capacity Maximum borrowing capacity Long-term Line of Credit, Noncurrent Long-term debt under credit facilities Line of Credit [Member] Credit Facilities Long-term Debt, Maturities, Repayments of Principal after Year Five Thereafter Long-term Debt, Maturities, Repayments of Principal in Next Twelve Months 2012 Long-term Debt, Maturities, Repayments of Principal in Year Five 2016 Long-term Debt, Maturities, Repayments of Principal in Year Four 2015 Long-term Debt, Maturities, Repayments of Principal in Year Three 2014 Long-term Debt, Maturities, Repayments of Principal in Year Two 2013 Long-term debt Long-term Debt, Excluding Current Maturities Total long-term debt Loss Contingencies by Nature of Contingency [Axis] Loss Contingencies [Line Items] Loss Contingencies Loss Contingencies [Table] Civil penalty paid, which had been fully reserved in the contingency accrual (in dollars) Loss Contingency Accrual, Carrying Value, Payments Loss Contingency, Estimate of Possible Loss Expected maximum settlement amount Estimated total costs relating to crude oil releases including the remediation costs, high end of range Loss Contingency, Range of Possible Loss, Maximum Estimated total costs relating to crude oil releases including the remediation costs, low end of range Loss Contingency, Range of Possible Loss, Minimum Initial margin Margin Deposit Assets Maturities of Senior Debt Repayments of senior notes Senior notes repaid Members or Limited Partners, Subsequent Distribution Amount Subsequent cash distribution paid to common unit holders Noncontrolling Interest, Ownership Percentage by Noncontrolling Owners Noncontrolling interests, ownership percentage of noncontrolling owners Noncontrolling Interest, Ownership interest of reporting entity (as a percent) Noncontrolling Interest, Ownership Percentage by Parent Noncontrolling Interest, Decrease from Distributions to Noncontrolling Interest Holders Distribution to noncontrolling interest Noncontrolling Interest [Line Items] Noncontrolling interests in partners' capital Noncontrolling Interest, Increase from Equity Issuance or Sale of Parent Equity Interest Sale of noncontrolling interest in a subsidiary Changes in the noncontrolling interests in partners' capital Stockholders' Equity Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest [Roll Forward] Noncontrolling Interest [Table] Stockholders' Equity Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest Noncontrolling interests Beginning balance Ending Balance Related Party Transactions, by Related Party [Axis] Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Operating Activities, Continuing Operations Net cash provided by operating activities Cash payment for (proceeds from) termination of interest rate swaps Payments for (Proceeds from) Hedge, Financing Activities Net Income (Loss) Attributable to Parent NET INCOME ATTRIBUTABLE TO PLAINS Net income attributable to Plains Net Income Attributable to Plains Assets, Noncurrent [Abstract] OTHER ASSETS Inventory, Noncurrent Long-term inventory LONG-TERM LIABILITIES Liabilities, Noncurrent [Abstract] Liabilities, Noncurrent Total long-term liabilities Nonmonetary Notional Amount of Price Risk Derivatives Crude oil, LPG and refined products inventory hedged (in barrels) Total Notes and Loans, Noncurrent Senior notes, net of unamortized discount of $15 and $13, respectively Notes Payable, Noncurrent Senior notes, net of unamortized discounts Notional Amount of Foreign Currency Cash Flow Hedge Derivatives Notional amount of foreign currency cash flow hedge derivatives Notional Amount of Foreign Currency Derivatives Notional amount of outstanding foreign currency forward exchange contracts Notional Amount of Interest Rate Cash Flow Hedge Derivatives Notional amount of interest rate cash flow hedge derivatives Notional Amount of Interest Rate Derivatives Notional amount of interest rate derivatives Number of outstanding interest rate swaps (in contracts) Number of Interest Rate Derivatives Held Costs Offering Costs, Partnership Interests Costs Office Equipment [Member] Office property and equipment Operating Income (Loss) OPERATING INCOME Operating income/(loss) Operating income REVENUES Revenues [Abstract] Revenues Total revenues External Customers Revenues Organization, Consolidation and Presentation of Financial Statements Disclosure [Text Block] Organization and Basis of Presentation Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Foreign Currency Transaction and Translation Adjustment, Net of Tax Currency translation adjustment Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax Other comprehensive income/(loss) Other comprehensive income/(loss) Total period activity Reclassification adjustments Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Reclassification Adjustment on Derivatives Included in Net Income, before Tax Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Reclassification Adjustment on Derivatives Included in Net Income, Net of Tax Reclassification adjustments Other Assets, Current Other current assets Other Short-term Borrowings Other short-term debt Partners' Capital Account, Acquisitions Issuance of common units in connection with the PNGS Acquisition Distributions per limited partner unit (in dollars per unit) Partners' Capital Account, Distribution Per Unit of Limited Partner Interest Partners' Capital Account, Distributions Distributions Increase (Decrease) in Partners' Capital Partners' Capital Account, Sale of Units Issuance of common units Net Proceeds Partners' Capital Account, Unit-based Compensation Equity compensation expense Partners' Capital Account, Units, Period Increase (Decrease) Partners' Capital Account, Units, Period Increase (Decrease) Number of common units sold in IPO (in units) Partners' Capital Account, Units, Sold in Public Offering Partners' Capital and Distributions Partners' Capital Notes Disclosure [Text Block] Partners' Capital and Distributions Partners' Capital Total partners' capital excluding noncontrolling interests Partners' capital excluding noncontrolling interests Contributions from general partner Proceeds from Partnership Contribution Broker payable Payables to Broker-Dealers and Clearing Organizations Payments of Dividends, Noncontrolling Interest Distributions to noncontrolling interests Pipelines [Member] Crude oil pipelines and facilities Price Risk Derivatives [Abstract] Commodity Price Risk Hedging: Private Placement [Member] Private Placement Proceeds from Divestiture of Interest in Consolidated Subsidiaries Cash received for sale of noncontrolling interest in a subsidiary Net proceeds from the issuance of common units (Note 9) Proceeds from Issuance of Common Limited Partners Units Net Proceeds Proceeds from Issuance or Sale of Equity Proceeds from Issuance of Private Placement Net proceeds from private placement on PNG common units Proceeds from Sale of Productive Assets Proceeds from sales of assets Proceeds from Sale of Property, Plant, and Equipment Proceeds from sale of various property and equipment Property, Plant and Equipment, Gross PROPERTY AND EQUIPMENT Property and equipment, gross Property, Plant and Equipment [Abstract] Property and equipment, useful life Property, Plant and Equipment, Net Property and equipment, net Property and equipment, net Payments to Acquire Equity Method Investments Investment in unconsolidated entities Receivables, Net, Current [Abstract] Accounts Receivable Receivables, Net, Current Trade accounts receivable and other receivables, net Due from Related Parties, Current Trade accounts receivable and other receivables, gross Due from Related Parties, Noncurrent Long-term receivable Related Party Transaction [Line Items] Related party transaction Related Party Transactions Disclosure [Text Block] Related Party Transactions Schedule of Related Party Transactions, by Related Party [Table] Repayments of Assumed Debt Repayment of PNGS debt Repayments of Senior Debt Repayments of senior notes Restricted Cash and Investments, Current [Abstract] Restricted Cash Restricted cash (Note 4) Restricted Cash and Cash Equivalents, Noncurrent Sale of Stock, Number of Shares Issued in Transaction Number of common units issued representing limited partner interest (in units) Sale of Stock, Price Per Share Price per unit of common units issued Number of common units issued to Plains (in units) Sale of Stock, Consideration Received on Transaction Net proceeds received by PNG from sale of common units Schedule of Equity Method Investments [Table Text Block] Investments in entities accounted for under the equity method of accounting Segment Reporting Information, Revenue for Reportable Segment Total revenues of reportable segments Segment Reporting Information [Line Items] Operating segment information Schedule of Segment Reporting Information, by Segment [Table] Segment Reporting Disclosure [Text Block] Operating Segments Senior Notes, Current Senior Notes, Current Senior Notes, Noncurrent Senior notes Total Series of Individually Immaterial Business Acquisitions [Member] Other acquisitions Unit issuance (in units) Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Converted in Period Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Forfeited in Period, Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value Cancelled or forfeited (in dollars per unit) Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Forfeited in Period Cancelled or forfeited (in units) Unit forfeitures (in units) Unit forfeitures Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Grants in Period, Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value Granted (in dollars per unit) Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Grants in Period Granted (in units) Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Nonvested, Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value Outstanding at beginning of period (in dollars per unit) Outstanding at end of period (in dollars per unit) Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Nonvested, Number Units Outstanding (in units) Outstanding at beginning of period (in units) Outstanding at end of period (in units) Employee Service Share-based Compensation, Nonvested Awards, Total Compensation Cost Not yet Recognized Additional expense expected to be recognized over life of outstanding awards related to remaining unrecognized fair value LTIP unit settled vestings Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Vested in Period, Total Fair Value LTIP unit vestings, fair value Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Vested in Period, Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value Vested (in dollars per unit) Units vested (in units) Vested (in units) Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Vested in Period Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Award Vesting Rights Award vesting rights (as a percent) Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Number of Shares Authorized Authorized grants (in units) Schedule of Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Award Type and Plan Name [Axis] LTIP cash settled vestings Employee Service Share-based Compensation, Cash Flow Effect, Cash Used to Settle Awards Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items] Share-based Compensation Arrangement, by Share-based Payment Award Schedule of Share-based Compensation Arrangements by Share-based Payment Award [Table] Short-term debt: Short-term Borrowings [Abstract] Significant Accounting Policies [Text Block] Summary of Significant Accounting Policies Site Contingency by Nature [Axis] Site Contingency [Line Items] Environmental remediation disclosures Site Contingency [Table] Standby Letters of Credit [Member] Letters of credit CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF COMPREHENSIVE INCOME CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENT OF PARTNERS' CAPITAL Ownership interest (in percent) Subsidiary or Equity Method Investee, Cumulative Percentage Ownership after All Transactions Subsidiary, Sale of Stock [Axis] Related party ownership of general partner interest (as a percent) Subsidiary of Limited Liability Company or Limited Partnership, Ownership Interest Book value of pipeline contributed Contribution of Property CURRENT ASSETS Assets, Current [Abstract] Assets, Current Total current assets Total current assets Use of Estimates, Policy [Policy Text Block] Use of Estimates Valuation Allowances and Reserves, Balance Balance at beginning of period Balance at end of period Valuation Allowances and Reserves, Charged to Cost and Expense Charged to costs and expenses Valuation Allowances and Reserves, Charged to Other Accounts Charged to other accounts Valuation Allowances and Reserves, Deductions Deductions Impairment of Long-Lived Assets Valuation and Qualifying Accounts Disclosure [Line Items] Valuation Allowances and Reserves Type [Axis] Valuation and Qualifying Accounts Disclosure [Table] Write off of debt issuance cost Write off of Deferred Debt Issuance Cost Consolidation, Eliminations [Member] Eliminations Other Equity Method Investee [Member] General Partner General Partner [Member] Common Units Limited Partner [Member] Limited Partner Construction in Progress [Member] Construction in progress Property, Plant and Equipment Disclosure [Text Block] Components of property, plant and equipment, net Property, Plant and Equipment, Useful Life, Maximum Average Depreciable Life, Maximum (in years) Property, Plant and Equipment, Useful Life, Minimum Average Depreciable Life, minimum (in years) Property, Plant and Equipment, Useful Life, Average Average Depreciable Life, (in years) PROPERTY AND EQUIPMENT Restatement Adjustment [Member] As Revised Credit facility, Weighted-average interest rate (as a percent) Line of Credit Facility, Interest Rate During Period Credit facility, interest rate (as a percent) Loans, Notes, Trade and Other Receivables Disclosure [Text Block] Accounts Receivable Assets Total assets General Partners' Capital Account, Period Distribution Amount Cash distribution paid to General Partner - 2% Less: General partner 2% ownership Cash distributions paid to common unit holders Limited Partners' Capital Account, Distribution Amount Goodwill, Impairment Loss Impairment Other Assets, Noncurrent [Abstract] Other Assets, Net Other Liabilities, Current Other current liabilities Other Liabilities, Noncurrent Other long-term liabilities and deferred credits Other long-term liabilities Concentration Risk by Benchmark [Axis] Segment Reporting Information, Revenue for Reportable Segment [Abstract] Revenues: Disclosure of Compensation Related Costs, Share-based Payments [Text Block] Equity Compensation Plans Fair Value, by Balance Sheet Grouping [Table] Fair Value, by Balance Sheet Grouping, Disclosure Item Amounts [Axis] Carrying (Reported) Amount, Fair Value Disclosure [Member] Carrying Amount Estimate of Fair Value, Fair Value Disclosure [Member] Total Fair Value Financial Instruments Fair Value, Balance Sheet Grouping, Financial Statement Captions [Line Items] Cash and Cash Equivalents, Fair Value Disclosure Cash and cash equivalents Statement [Table] Statement, Scenario [Axis] Financial Instruments, Financial Assets, Balance Sheet Groupings [Abstract] Financial assets: Notes Payable, Fair Value Disclosure Senior notes (principal amount) Financial Instruments, Financial Liabilities, Balance Sheet Groupings [Abstract] Financial liabilities: Income (Loss) from Equity Method Investments, Net of Dividends or Distributions Equity earnings in unconsolidated entities, net of distributions Movement in Valuation Allowances and Reserves [Roll Forward] Allowance for Doubtful accounts, activity Assets [Abstract] ASSETS Statement Statement [Line Items] Fair Value, Assets Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation, Calculation [Roll Forward] Roll forward of Level 3 Net Liability Capital Unit, Class A [Member] Capital Unit, Class B [Member] Fair Value, Inputs, Level 1 [Member] Level 1 Fair Value, Inputs, Level 2 [Member] Level 2 Fair Value, Inputs, Level 3 [Member] Level 3 Major Customers and Concentration of Credit Risk Fair Value Disclosures [Text Block] Fair Value Measurements Quarterly Financial Information [Text Block] Quarterly Financial Data (Unaudited) Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Investing Activities, Continuing Operations Net cash used in investing activities Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Financing Activities, Continuing Operations Net cash provided by financing activities Long-term Debt, by Maturity [Abstract] Maturities Long-term Debt [Member] Long-term debt Short-term Debt [Member] Short-term debt Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Cumulative Changes in Net Gain (Loss) from Cash Flow Hedges, Effect Net of Tax Net loss deferred in AOCI Accrual for Environmental Loss Contingencies [Abstract] Contingencies Receivables from Brokers-Dealers and Clearing Organizations Broker receivable Long-term Debt. Long-term debt Other Long-term Debt, Noncurrent Long-term debt under credit facilities and other Other Assets, Noncurrent Other, net Goodwill [Roll Forward] Changes in goodwill Net Income Per Limited Partner Unit Goodwill, Acquired During Period Acquisitions Dispositions Goodwill, Written off Related to Sale of Business Unit Goodwill, Translation and Purchase Accounting Adjustments Schedule of Equity Method Investments [Table] Schedule of Equity Method Investment, Equity Method Investee, Name [Axis] Schedule of Equity Method Investments [Line Items] Equity Method of Accounting Goodwill. Goodwill Balance at beginning of period Balance at end of period Parent Company [Member] Parent Schedule of Property, Plant and Equipment [Table] Long-term Debt, Unclassified [Abstract] Long-term debt: Property, Plant and Equipment by Type [Axis] Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items] Property, Plant and Equipment. Other Nonoperating Income (Expense) Other income/(expense), net Other income/(expense), net Components of Deferred Tax Assets [Abstract] Deferred tax assets: Components of Deferred Tax Liabilities [Abstract] Deferred tax liabilities: Property, plant and equipment in excess of tax values Deferred Tax Liabilities, Property, Plant and Equipment Income Tax Expense (Benefit) Income tax expense Total income tax (benefit)/expense Foreign Currency Transaction Gain (Loss), before Tax Gain (loss) on revaluation of foreign currency transactions and monetary assets and liabilities Interest Costs, Capitalized During Period Interest expense, capitalized interest Capitalized interest Gain (Loss) on Sale of Investments Gain on sale of investment assets Scenario, Previously Reported [Member] Amounts Previously Reported Translation Adjustments Accumulated Translation Adjustment [Member] Partnership Income [Abstract] NET INCOME ATTRIBUTABLE TO PLAINS: Net Income (Loss), Per Outstanding Limited Partnership Unit, Basic BASIC NET INCOME PER LIMITED PARTNER UNIT (in dollars per unit) Basic net income per limited partner unit (in dollars per unit) Distributions Per Limited Partnership Unit Outstanding, Basic Cash distributions per common unit (in dollars per unit) Cash distributions per limited partner unit (in dollars per unit) Weighted Average Limited Partnership Units Outstanding, Basic BASIC WEIGHTED AVERAGE UNITS OUTSTANDING (in units) Basic weighted average number of limited partner units outstanding (in units) Related Party Transaction, Revenues from Transactions with Related Party Revenues Related Party Transaction, Expenses from Transactions with Related Party Purchases and related cost Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Useful Life, Minimum Average Depreciable Life, Minimum (in years) Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Useful Life, Maximum Average Depreciable Life, maximum (in years) Stock Issued During Period, Shares, Share-based Compensation, Net of Forfeitures Units issued in connection with the settlement of vested awards, net of tax withholding (in units) Unamortized Debt Issuance Expense Debt issue costs Statement, Business Segments [Axis] Statement, Geographical [Axis] Schedule of Condensed Financial Statements [Table] COSTS AND EXPENSES Costs and Expenses [Abstract] Costs and Expenses Total costs and expenses Guarantor Subsidiaries [Member] Combined Guarantor Subsidiaries Non-Guarantor Subsidiaries [Member] Combined Non-Guarantor Subsidiaries Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Nonvested [Roll Forward] Outstanding (in units) Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Additional Disclosures [Abstract] Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value per unit LTIP Vesting Commitments and Contingencies. COMMITMENTS AND CONTINGENCIES (NOTE 12) Business Combination, Consideration Transferred Consideration transferred for Rainbow acquisition Business Combination, Step Acquisition, Equity Interest in Acquiree, Remeasurement Gain (Loss), Net Net gain on pre-acquisition relationship Revenues Business Combination, Pro Forma Information, Revenue of Acquiree since Acquisition Date, Actual Earnings Business Combination, Pro Forma Information, Earnings or Loss of Acquiree since Acquisition Date, Actual Earnings Per Share [Text Block] Net Income Per Limited Partner Unit Acquisition-related costs incurred Business Combination, Acquisition Related Costs Net Income (Loss), Including Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest NET INCOME Net income Net Income Attributable to Plains Net Income (Loss) Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest Net income attributable to noncontrolling interests Net income attributable to noncontrolling interests Major Customers [Axis] Depreciation, Depletion and Amortization Depreciation and amortization Depreciation and amortization Statement, Partner Capital Components [Axis] Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax, Including Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest Comprehensive income Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax, Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest Less: Comprehensive income attributable to noncontrolling interests Partners' Capital Account, Units, Sale of Units Issuance of common units (in units) Units Issued Change from net income attributable to Plains and net transfers to the noncontrolling interest Consolidation, Less than Wholly Owned Subsidiary, Parent Ownership Interest, Change Due to Net Income Attributable to Parent and Effects of Changes, Net Net Income (Loss), Per Outstanding Limited Partnership Unit, Diluted DILUTED NET INCOME PER LIMITED PARTNER UNIT (in dollars per unit) Diluted net income per limited partner unit (in dollars per unit) Debt Instrument, Unamortized Discount (Premium), Net Senior notes, unamortized discount (in dollars) Unamortized discount Aggregate unamortized net discount Accrued Liabilities Accrued liability Accounts Payable and Accrued Liabilities, Current Accounts payable and accrued liabilities Due to Related Parties, Current Accounts payable, gross Total period activity Other comprehensive income/(loss) attributable to Plains Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax, Portion Attributable to Parent Business Combination, Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired, Goodwill, and Liabilities Assumed, Net Total assets and liabilities Income (Loss) from Continuing Operations before Income Taxes, Extraordinary Items, Noncontrolling Interest INCOME BEFORE TAX Total partners' capital Partners' Capital, Including Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest Balance Balance Net decrease in cash and cash equivalents Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Continuing Operations Other Noncash Income (Expense) Other Valuation Allowances and Reserves [Domain] Transfers out of Level 3 Fair Value, Measurement with Unobservable Inputs Reconciliation, Recurring Basis, Asset, Transfers out of Level 3 Other Goodwill, Other Changes Goodwill, Impaired, Accumulated Impairment Loss Accumulated impairment losses Organization and Basis of Presentation Accounts Receivable Cash and Cash Equivalents, Restricted Cash and Cash Equivalents, Policy [Policy Text Block] Restricted Cash Related Party [Domain] Acquisitions Fair Value, Hierarchy [Axis] Fair Value by Measurement Frequency [Axis] Long-term debt maturities Schedule of Maturities of Long-term Debt [Table Text Block] Deferred tax assets and liabilities Schedule of Deferred Tax Assets and Liabilities [Table Text Block] Schedule of Components of Income Tax Expense (Benefit) [Table Text Block] Components of income tax expense Schedule of Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation [Table Text Block] Summary of differences between tax expense based on the statutory federal income tax rate and the entity's effective tax expense Estimated amortization expense related to finite-lived intangible assets for the next five years Schedule of Expected Amortization Expense [Table Text Block] Financial assets and liabilities within the fair value hierarchy accounted for at fair value on a recurring basis Schedule of Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring Basis [Table Text Block] Computation of basic and diluted earnings per limited partner unit Schedule of Calculation of Numerator and Denominator in Earnings Per Share [Table Text Block] Business acquisition purchase price allocation - Southern Pines Acquisition Schedule of Purchase Price Allocation [Table Text Block] Commitments and Contingencies Income Taxes Goodwill Fair Value Measurements Subsequent Events Subsequent Events [Text Block] Debt Goodwill Goodwill Disclosure [Text Block] Quarterly Financial Data (Unaudited) Schedule of Quarterly Financial Information [Table Text Block] Summary of equity compensation activity Schedule of Nonvested Performance-based Units Activity [Table Text Block] Amounts of gain/(loss) recognized in AOCI on derivatives (effective portion) Schedule of Derivative Instruments, Effect on Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Table Text Block] Long-term Debt, Fair Value Long-term debt under credit facilities Short-term Debt, Fair Value Short-term debt under credit facilities Quarterly Financial Data (Unaudited) Derivatives and Risk Management Activities Outstanding letters of credit Letters of Credit Outstanding, Amount Equity Compensation Plans Asset Retirement Obligations, Policy [Policy Text Block] Asset Retirement Obligations Business Combinations Policy [Policy Text Block] Acquisitions and Dispositions Cash and Cash Equivalents, Policy [Policy Text Block] Cash and Cash Equivalents Derivatives, Policy [Policy Text Block] Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities Noncontrolling Interest Consolidation, Policy [Policy Text Block] Foreign Currency Transactions and Translations Policy [Policy Text Block] Foreign Currency Transactions Impairment or Disposal of Long-Lived Assets, Policy [Policy Text Block] Impairment of Long-Lived Assets Income Tax, Policy [Policy Text Block] Income and Other Taxes Inventory, Policy [Policy Text Block] Inventory, Linefill, Base Gas and Long-term Inventory Investment, Policy [Policy Text Block] Equity Method of Accounting Property, Plant and Equipment, Policy [Policy Text Block] Property and Equipment Trade and Other Accounts Receivable, Policy [Policy Text Block] Accounts Receivable Revenue Recognition, Policy [Policy Text Block] Revenue Recognition Schedule of Derivative Instruments [Table Text Block] Terms of forward starting interest rate swaps Schedule of Finite-Lived Intangible Assets by Major Class [Table Text Block] Components of intangible assets that have finite lives Schedule of Revenue from External Customers Attributed to Foreign Countries by Geographic Area [Table Text Block] Revenues attributable to geographical areas Schedule of Disclosure on Geographic Areas, Long-Lived Assets in Individual Foreign Countries by Country [Table Text Block] Long-lived assets attributable to geographical areas Schedule of Goodwill [Table Text Block] Changes in goodwill Components of property, plant and equipment, net Property, Plant and Equipment [Table Text Block] Schedule of Segment Reporting Information, by Segment [Table Text Block] Segment financial data Share-based Compensation, Option and Incentive Plans Policy [Policy Text Block] Equity Compensation Changes made to holdings in limited partner units of PNG Schedule of Subsidiary of Limited Liability Company or Limited Partnership, Description [Table Text Block] Fair Value, by Balance Sheet Grouping [Table Text Block] Schedule of estimated fair values of financial instruments Earnings Per Share, Policy [Policy Text Block] Net Income Per Limited Partner Unit Schedule of Other Assets, Noncurrent [Table Text Block] Components of other assets, net of accumulated amortization Commitments and Contingencies, Policy [Policy Text Block] Legal Contingencies Changes made to holdings in limited partner units of PNG Consolidation, Less than Wholly Owned Subsidiary, Parent Ownership Interest, Effects of Changes, Net [Table Text Block] Business Acquisition, Acquiree [Domain] Concentration Risk Benchmark [Domain] Concentration Risk Type [Domain] Debt Instrument, Name [Domain] Derivative, Name [Domain] Equity Method Investee, Name [Domain] Extinguishment of Debt, Type [Domain] Fair Value, Disclosure Item Amounts [Domain] Fair Value, Measurement Frequency [Domain] Fair Value, Measurements, Fair Value Hierarchy [Domain] Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Major Class Name [Domain] Incentive Distribution, Recipient [Domain] Loss Contingency, Nature [Domain] Name of Major Customer [Domain] Partner Capital Components [Domain] Property, Plant and Equipment, Type [Domain] Sale of Stock, Name of Transaction [Domain] Scenario, Unspecified [Domain] Segment [Domain] Segment, Geographical [Domain] Share-based Compensation Arrangements by Share-based Payment Award, Award Type and Plan Name [Domain] Site Contingency, Nature of Contingency [Domain] Components of debt Schedule of Debt [Table Text Block] Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Table] Recent Accounting Pronouncements Summary of Significant Accounting Policies Environmental Remediation Disposal Groups, Including Discontinued Operations, Disclosure Operating Segments Related Party Transactions Subsequent Events Insurance Insurance [Abstract] Range [Axis] Range [Domain] Maximum [Member] Maximum Minimum [Member] Minimum Business Combination, Step Acquisition, Equity Interest in Acquiree, Remeasurement Gain Net gain on pre-acquisition relationship Distributions paid to common unitholders (Note 9) Distribution Made to Member or Limited Partner, Cash Distributions Paid General Partner Contribution General Partners' Contributed Capital Proceeds from Sale Limited Partners' Contributed Capital Business Acquisition, Equity Interest Issued or Issuable, Number of Shares Equivalent value of PAA common units issued at closing (in common units) Derivative Instrument Risk [Axis] Issuance of common units under LTIP Stock Issued During Period, Value, Share-based Compensation, Gross LTIP awards, issued (in units) Stock Issued During Period, Shares, Share-based Compensation, Gross Hedging Designation [Domain] Crude Oil [Member] Crude oil Hedging Designation [Axis] Investment Owned, at Cost Acquisition investment at cost Derivatives, Fair Value, by Balance Sheet Location [Axis] Balance Sheet Location [Domain] Derivatives, Fair Value [Line Items] Derivatives disclosures Asset Derivatives Fair Value Derivative Asset, Fair Value, Gross Asset Liability Derivatives Fair Value Derivative Liability, Fair Value, Gross Liability Interest Rate Contract [Member] Interest Rate Contracts Foreign Exchange Contract [Member] Foreign exchange contracts Commodity Contract [Member] Commodity Interest Expense [Member] Interest expense Not Designated as Hedging Instrument [Member] Derivatives not designated as hedging instruments Income Statement and Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) Location [Domain] Schedule of Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) in Statement of Financial Performance [Table Text Block] Impact of derivative activities recognized in earnings Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) [Line Items] Impact of derivative activities recognized in earnings Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) by Income Statement Location [Axis] Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) by Hedging Relationship, by Income Statement Location, by Derivative Instrument Risk [Table] Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) Recognized in Income, Ineffective Portion and Amount Excluded from Effectiveness Testing, Net Derivatives in Cash Flow Hedging Relationships - Ineffective Portion Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) Reclassified from Accumulated OCI into Income, Effective Portion, Net Unrealized gains reclassified from AOCI to earnings to offset lower of cost or market adjustment relating to carrying value of inventory Derivative Instruments, Gain Reclassified from Accumulated OCI into Income, Effective Portion Reclassification from AOCI to earnings during the period to offset a LCM adjustment relating to carrying value of PNG's inventory Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) Recognized in Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Effective Portion, Net Net deferred gain/(loss) recognized in AOCI on derivatives (effective portion) Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) Recognized in Income, Net Total Derivative Contract Type [Domain] Schedule of Derivative Instruments in Statement of Financial Position, Fair Value [Table Text Block] Summary of derivative assets and liabilities on consolidated balance sheet Fair Values Derivatives, Balance Sheet Location, by Derivative Contract Type [Table] Noncontrolling Interests Noncontrolling Interest [Member] Partners' Capital Excluding Noncontrolling Interests Parent [Member] Total Net Income Attributable to Plains Increase in capital from sale of PNG units Consolidation, Less than Wholly Owned Subsidiary, Parent Ownership Interest, Changes, Sale of Interest by Parent Consolidation, Less than Wholly Owned Subsidiary, Parent Ownership Interest, Changes, Net [Abstract] Transfers to the noncontrolling interests: Future non-cancelable commitments related to various operating and capital leases Leases [Abstract] Partners' Capital Account, Units, Acquisitions Issuance of common units in connection with the PNGS Acquisition (in units) Adjustments to Reconcile Net Income (Loss) to Cash Provided by (Used in) Operating Activities [Abstract] Reconciliation of net income to net cash provided by operating activities: Reconciliation of net income to net cash provided by/(used in) operating activities: Weighted Average Limited Partnership Units Outstanding, Diluted DILUTED WEIGHTED AVERAGE UNITS OUTSTANDING (in units) Diluted weighted average number of limited partner units outstanding (in units) Weighted Average Number Diluted Limited Partnership Units Outstanding Adjustment Weighted average LTIP units (in units) Deferred gain/(loss) on cash flow hedges, net Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Derivatives Qualifying as Hedges, before Tax, Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest Business Combination, Step Acquisition, Equity Interest in Acquiree, Percentage Percent ownership in PAA/Vulcan prior to acquisition of additional interest (as a percent) Percent ownership prior to acquisition of additional interest (as a percent) Deferred Compensation Share-based Arrangements, Liability, Current and Noncurrent Accrued liability related to all outstanding LTIP awards and DERs Partners' Capital, Other Other Increase (Decrease) in Partners' Capital [Roll Forward] Increase (Decrease) in Partners' Capital Net Income (Loss), Per Outstanding Limited Partnership Unit, Diluted, Other Disclosures [Abstract] Effect of dilutive securities: Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax, Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest [Abstract] Other comprehensive income/(loss): PARTNERS' CAPITAL Partners' Capital, Including Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest [Abstract] Foreign currency translation adjustments Goodwill, Translation Adjustments Purchase accounting adjustments Goodwill, Purchase Accounting Adjustments Intersegment Segment Reporting Information, Intersegment Revenue Accrual for Environmental Loss Contingencies, Increase (Decrease) for Acquisitions and Divestitures Environmental reserve recognized Gain (Loss) on Sale of Other Investments Gain on sale of investment assets Unrealized Gain (Loss) on Derivatives Deferred gains on settled hedges, net Cash Flow Hedge Gain (Loss) to be Reclassified within Twelve Months Net gain expected to be reclassified to earnings in next 12 months Changes in assets and liabilities, net of acquisitions: Increase (Decrease) in Operating Capital [Abstract] Variation margin returned/(posted) Increase (Decrease) in Margin Deposits Outstanding Canadian federal and provincial income tax Current Foreign Tax Expense (Benefit) Current Income Tax Expense (Benefit) [Abstract] Current tax (benefit)/expense: State income tax Current State and Local Tax Expense (Benefit) Canadian federal and provincial income tax, deferred Deferred Foreign Income Tax Expense (Benefit) Deferred Income Tax Expense (Benefit) [Abstract] Deferred tax (benefit)/expense: State income tax, deferred Deferred State and Local Income Tax Expense (Benefit) Gain on forward currency exchange contracts used to hedge acquisition price, recorded in earnings Gain (Loss) on Foreign Currency Derivatives Recorded in Earnings, Net Gain on commodity price risk derivative used to hedge anticipated purchase of crude oil linefill related to acquisition, recorded in earnings Gain (Loss) on Price Risk Derivatives, Net Net Income (Loss) Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest, Joint Venture Partners Net gain associated with interest rate swaps designated as fair value hedges Increase (Decrease) in Fair Value of Hedged Item in Interest Rate Fair Value Hedge CASH FLOWS FROM OPERATING ACTIVITIES Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Operating Activities, Continuing Operations [Abstract] Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Financing Activities [Abstract] CASH FLOWS FROM FINANCING ACTIVITIES Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Investing Activities [Abstract] CASH FLOWS FROM INVESTING ACTIVITIES Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Operating Activities [Abstract] CASH FLOWS FROM OPERATING ACTIVITIES OTHER INCOME/(EXPENSE) Nonoperating Income (Expense) [Abstract] Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Unrealized Gain (Loss) on Derivatives Arising During Period, Net of Tax Deferred gain on cash flow hedges, net of tax Payments for (Proceeds from) Other Investing Activities Other investing activities Proceeds from (Payments for) Other Financing Activities Other financing activities Reconciliation of Operating Profit (Loss) from Segments to Consolidated [Abstract] Reconciliation of segment profit to net income attributable to Plains CASH FLOWS FROM INVESTING ACTIVITIES Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Investing Activities, Continuing Operations [Abstract] CASH FLOWS FROM FINANCING ACTIVITIES Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Financing Activities, Continuing Operations [Abstract] Foreign Currency Transaction Gain (Loss), Unrealized Loss on foreign currency revaluation Gain (loss) on revaluation of foreign currency transactions and monetary assets and liabilities Increase (Decrease) in Accounts and Other Receivables Trade accounts receivable and other Trade accounts receivable and other Derivative Instruments Accumulated Net Gain (Loss) from Designated or Qualifying Cash Flow Hedges [Member] Net Income (Loss) Allocated to General Partners GENERAL PARTNER Net Income (Loss) Allocated to Limited Partners LIMITED PARTNERS Net income available to limited partners Operating Segments [Member] Operating Segments. Schedule of Revenues from External Customers and Long-Lived Assets [Table] Revenues and long lived assets attributable to geographic areas Revenues from External Customers and Long-Lived Assets [Line Items] Future amortization expense remainder fiscal year Future Amortization Expense, Remainder of Fiscal Year Other Other Assets, Miscellaneous, Noncurrent Debt Instrument, Description of Variable Rate Basis LIBOR Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member] Recurring Fair Value Measures Estimated maximum fines and penalties for alleged violations Loss Contingency, Damages Sought, Value Designated as Hedging Instrument [Member] Derivatives designated as hedging instruments Debt Instrument, Fair Value Disclosure Debt instrument fair value Linefill and Base Gas Crude oil, refined products, and LPG linefill and base gas in pipelines and natural gas storage facilities that are owned by the entity. The linefill and base gas are intended for long-term use. Linefill and base gas LIABILITIES AND PARTNERS' CAPITAL Liabilities and Partners Capital [Abstract] Partners' Capital Account, Unit-based Compensation, Long-term Incentive Plans The value of common units issued during the period as a result of Long-term Incentive Plans (LTIP). Issuance of common units under Long Term Incentive Plans ("LTIP") Partners' Capital Account, Unit-based Compensation, Class B Units The expense borne by the reporting entity (the partnership) during the period relating to the equity compensation plan of the General Partner of the partnership. The amount represents a capital contribution from the General Partner to the partnership, relating to units of the partnership's General Partner awarded to officers of the partnership for services rendered to the partnership. Class B Units of Plains AAP, L.P. (Note 11) Partners' Capital Account, Units Issued, Unit-based Compensation, Long-term Incentive Plans The number of common units issued during the period as a result of Long-term Incentive Plans (LTIP). Issuance of common units under Long Term Incentive Plans ("LTIP") (in units) Interest Income and Other Income (Expense), Net Interest income and income not otherwise defined. Interest income and other income/(expense), net Gain (Loss) on Sale of Linefill Gain on sales of linefill and base gas The difference between the sale price and book value of linefill that was sold during the reporting period. Net Proceeds from (Repayments of) Short-term Letter of Credit and Hedged Inventory Facility The net cash inflow (outflow) due to borrowings (repayments) on the Short-term Letter of Credit and Hedged Inventory Facility. Net repayments on PAA's hedged inventory facility Net repayments on PAA's hedged inventory facility Crude Oil Refined Products and LPG Sales and Related Revenues Buy Sell Transactions The revenues related to the buy/sell transactions of crude oil, refined products and LPG. Crude oil, refined products and LPG sales and related revenues, buy/sell transactions Crude Oil Refined Products and LPG Purchases and Related Costs Buy Sell Transactions The purchases related to the buy/sell transactions of crude oil, refined products and LPG. Crude oil, refined products and LPG purchases and related costs, buy/sell transactions CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENT OF CHANGES IN ACCUMULATED OTHER COMPREHENSIVE INCOME Changes in Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income [Table] Attributes of the changes in the components of accumulated other comprehensive income (loss). Changes in Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income [Axis] Represents subset of the changes in the components of accumulated other comprehensive income (loss). Changes in Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income, Components [Domain] Components of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income include: deferred gains (losses) on qualifying hedges, unrealized holding gains (losses) on available-for-sale securities, minimum pension liability, and cumulative translation adjustment. Changes in Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income [Line Items] Changes in Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income Purchases and Related Costs. Costs related to the purchase of crude oil, refined products, LPG and natural gas storage during the period, primarily from gathering and marketing activities. Purchases and related costs Document and Entity Information Total of Partners' Capital (deficit) items including portions attributable to both the parent and noncontrolling interests (previously referred to as minority interest), if any. The entity including portions attributable to the parent and noncontrolling interests is sometimes referred to as the economic entity. This excludes temporary equity and is sometimes called permanent equity. Total partners' capital Partners' Capital, Including Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interests Other Represents the component of other comprehensive income (loss) that is not specifically defined elsewhere in the taxonomy. Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income Other Adjustments [Member] Other Comprehensive Income, Partnership's Portion of Equity Investee Proportionate share of our unconsolidated entities' other comprehensive loss The partnership's proportionate share of changes in accumulated other comprehensive income for an equity investee. Net gain on purchase of remaining 50% interest in PNGS Gain on Conversions of Equity Method Investment Recognized gain on the adjustment of an equity method investment to fair value upon acquisition of the remaining indirect interest. The entity is subsequently accounted for on a consolidated basis. Net cash received/(paid) for sales and purchases of linefill and base gas Cash Received (Paid) for Linefill, Net The net cash inflow or outflow to acquire linefill in pipelines. Acquisitions and Dispositions Disclosure [Text Block] Acquisitions and Dispositions The entire disclosure for business combinations, including leverage buyout transactions and divestitures. This may include a description of a business combination or divestitures (or series of individually immaterial business combinations or divestitures) completed during the period, including background, timing and assets and liabilities recognized and reclassified or sold. Canadian Withholding Tax Distribution on Behalf of Shareholders Other The change in partners' capital during the period due to Canadian withholding tax distribution on behalf of shareholders. Supply and Logistics segment revenues Supply and Logistics Segment Revenues. Revenue from the sale of crude oil, refined products, LPG and natural gas storage during the period, primarily from supply and logistics activities. Pipeline Tariff Activities Trucking and Related Revenues Revenue from the transportation of crude oil and refined products, primarily on pipelines and trucks, and related activities during the period. Transportation segment revenues Facilities segment revenues Storage Terminalling Processing and Related Revenues Revenue from the storage, terminalling and processing of crude oil, refined products, LPG and natural gas during the period. Recent Accounting Pronouncements. Inventory, Linefill, Base Gas and Long-term Inventory Transportation segment revenues Transportation Segment Revenues. Revenue from the transportation of crude oil and refined products during the period, primarily on pipelines and trucks. Facilities segment revenues Facilities Segment Revenues. Revenue from the storage, terminalling and processing of crude oil, refined products, LPG and natural gas during the period. Field operating costs Field Operating Costs. Various field operating expenses, including fuel and power costs, telecommunications, payroll and benefit costs, (including equity compensation expense) for truck drivers and field personnel, maintenance and integrity management costs, regulatory compliance, environmental remediation, insurance, vehicle leases, and property taxes. Field operating costs Supply and Logistics segment revenues Sales and Related Revenues Revenue from the sale of crude oil, refined products, LPG and natural gas storage during the period, primarily from supply and logistics activities. Supplemental Condensed Consolidating Financial Information Increase (Decrease) in Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income [Roll Forward] A roll forward is a reconciliation of a concept from the beginning of a period to the end of a period. Increase (Decrease) in Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income Increase (Decrease) in Short-term Inventories Inventory The net change during the reporting period in the aggregate value of inventory classified as short-term held by the reporting entity, associated with underlying transactions that are classified as operating activities. Other Assets, Net This element describes the entity's accounting policy for other assets, which are otherwise not defined in the taxonomy. Other Assets [Policy Text Block] Environmental Liabilities [Policy Text Block] Environmental Matters This element describes the entity's accounting policy for environmental liabilities. Increase (Decrease) in Long-term Inventories Long-term inventory The net change during the reporting period in the aggregate value of inventory classified as long-term held by the reporting entity, associated with underlying transactions that are classified as operating activities. Net borrowings/(repayments) on PAA's revolving credit facility The net cash inflow (outflow) due to proceeds from additional borrowings and repayments on revolving credit facilities. Net Proceeds from (Repayments of) Revolving Credit Facilities Describes the entity's accounting policies for field operating costs, and general and administrative expenses. Field Operating Costs and General and Administrative Expenses [Policy Text Block] Field Operating Costs and General and Administrative Expenses The liability as of the balance sheet date for checks that have been issued but have not cleared. Liabilities for Outstanding Checks Outstanding checks that were reclassified from cash and cash equivalents to be included in accounts payable Accounts Receivable, Net Disclosure of Maximum Age of Balances Past Scheduled Invoice Date Net accounts receivable, maximum age of balances past their scheduled invoice date (in days) The maximum number of days past their scheduled invoice date for substantially all of the accounts receivable. Rainbow Pipeline Company [Member] This element represents information pertaining to the acquisition of Rainbow Pipe Line Company. Rainbow PAA Natural Gas Storage [Member] This element represents information pertaining to PAA Natural Gas Storage, LLC (PNGS), a subsidiary of Plains All American Pipeline, LP. PNGS Accumulated amortization Accumulated Amortization of Other Assets, Noncurrent Carrying amount of accumulated amortization of noncurrent assets not separately disclosed in the balance sheet. Storage and Terminal Facilities [Member] Long lived depreciable assets used primarily for the storage and terminalling of crude oil, refined products and liquefied petroleum gas, and other natural gas-related petroleum products. Storage and terminal facilities Land and Other [Member] This element represents the real estate assets held for productive use and related non-depreciable assets. Land and other Frontier Pipeline Company [Member] The investment in Frontier Pipeline Company (Frontier), a crude oil pipeline company, which is accounted for under the equity method of accounting. Frontier Pipeline Company Property Tax Abatement [Member] Intangible asset representing the value of the entity's property tax abatement. Property tax abatement Other Assets, Noncurrent, Gross Other assets, gross Gross amount, as of the balance sheet date, of noncurrent assets not separately disclosed in the balance sheet. Noncurrent assets are expected to be realized or consumed after one year (or the normal operating cycle, if longer). Numerator for basic and diluted earnings per limited partner unit: Basic net income per limited partner unit (in dollars per unit) Numerator for Basic and Diluted Earnings Per Limited Partner Unit [Abstract] Net income (loss) after incentive distribution is paid to the limited partnership general partner. Net Income (Loss) after Incentive Distribution Subtotal Adjustment for Two Class Method for MLP Adjustment in accordance with application of the two-class method for MLPs This element represents the adjustment made in accordance with the application of two-class method for Master Limited Partnership (MLPs). Net income available to limited partners in accordance with the application of the two-class method for MLPs Net Income (Loss) Available to Limited Partners after Adjustment for Two Class Method for MLP This element represents the net income (loss) available to limited partners after making an adjustment in accordance with the application of two-class method for Master Limited Partnership (MLPs). Settoon Towing [Member] The investment in Settoon Towing, LLC (Settoon Towing), a barge transportation services company, which is accounted for under the equity method of accounting. Settoon Towing, LLC Butte Pipeline Company [Member] The investment in Butte Pipe Line Company (Butte), a crude oil pipeline company, which is accounted for under the equity method of accounting. Butte Pipe Line Company Maximum Maturity of Cash Equivalent Investments Period Maximum original maturity period of cash equivalent investments (in months) The maximum original maturity period of investments which are considered as cash equivalents. Amortization Expense on Other Assets, Noncurrent Amortization expense related to other assets (including finite-lived intangible assets) Amount of amortization expense incurred during the period for items included in other assets, noncurrent. May include amortization expense for finite-lived intangible assets and amortization expense of capitalized debt issuance costs. Emission Reduction Credits [Member] Intangible assets representing the value of the entity's capitalized costs related to acquiring emission credits. Emission reduction credits Denominator: Denominator for Basic and Diluted Earnings Per Limited Partner Unit [Abstract] General Partner Ownership Interest in Subsidiary General partner ownership interest (as a percent) The percentage of general partner ownership in the subsidiary by the parent. General Partner Interest in PNG (as a percent) Schedule of Notional Amounts of Outstanding Foreign Currency Exchange Contracts [Table Text Block] Open foreign currency exchange contracts Disclosure of notional amounts of outstanding foreign currency forward exchange contracts. Net Long Position on Crude Oil Derivative Contracts [Member] Represents the derivative instruments utilized to hedge risk associated with crude oil activities. Net long crude oil derivative position Net Short Spread Position on Anticipated Crude Oil Lease Gathering Purchase Contracts [Member] Represents the derivative instruments utilized to hedge anticipated crude oil lease gathering purchases. Net short spread position hedging anticipated crude oil lease gathering purchases Net Short Spread Position of Calendar of Call Option [Member] Represents the derivative instruments in a net short spread position of calendar spread call options. Net short calendar spread call options positions Crude Oil Basis Differential Hedges [Member] Represents the derivative instruments consisting of WTS/WTI crude oil basis swaps, which hedge anticipated sales of crude oil (WTI). WTS/WTI crude oil basis swaps Crude Oil Futures and Swaps [Member] Represents the derivative instruments in a net short position for crude oil futures and swaps. Crude oil net short position Crude Oil Futures and Swaps Long Put Option [Member] Represents the derivative instruments in a long put option position. Crude oil long put option position Crude Oil Futures and Swaps Long Call Option [Member] Represents the derivative instruments in a long call option position. Crude oil long call option position Net Long Position on Natural Gas Swaps Contracts [Member] Represents derivative instruments consisting of long natural gas futures contracts. Long natural gas swaps position for anticipated base gas purchases Foreign Exchange Forward Contract at the Rate CAD 0.97 to USD 1.00 Maturing in 2011 [Member] Represents the foreign exchange forward contracts at the rate of CAD 0.97 to USD 1.00, which is maturing in 2011. Foreign exchange forward contract at the rate CAD 0.97 to USD 1.00 maturing in 2011 Foreign Exchange Forward Contract at the Rate CAD 1.01 to USD 1.00 Maturing in 2012 [Member] Represents the foreign exchange forward contracts at the rate of CAD 1.01 to USD 1.00, which is maturing in 2012. Foreign exchange forward contract at the rate CAD 1.01 to USD 1.00 maturing in 2012 Foreign Exchange Forward Contract at the Rate CAD 1.00 to USD 1.00 Maturing in 2013 [Member] Represents the foreign exchange forward contracts at the rate of CAD 1.00 to USD 1.00, which is maturing in 2013. Foreign exchange forward contract at the rate CAD 1.00 to USD 1.00 maturing in 2013 Nonmonetary Notional Amount of Price Risk Derivatives Average Per Day Net derivative positions per day (in barrels) Aggregate notional volume of commodity price risk derivatives per day, expressed in non-monetary units. Crude oil derivative for anticipated sale of foreign crude (in barrels) Crude Oil Derivative for Anticipated Sale of Foreign Crude Volume Aggregate notional volume of commodity price risk derivatives utilized to hedge the anticipated sale of foreign crude inventory. Additional Average Spread over LIBOR Percentage Additional average spread over LIBOR (as a percent) This element represents the percentage of additional interest rate over LIBOR for computation of interest rate swap. Gain (Loss) on Foreign Currency Cash Flow Hedges, Pretax Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income Net deferred gains from currency risk rate hedging included in AOCI This element represents the gain or loss on open and settled foreign currency cash flow hedges, which are included in AOCI. Sales and Related Revenues [Member] Revenue from the sale of crude oil, refined products, LPG and natural gas storage during the period, primarily from supply and logistics activities. Supply and Logistics segment revenues Pipeline Tariff Activities Trucking and Related Revenues [Member] Revenue from the transportation of crude oil and refined products during the period, primarily on pipelines and trucks. Transportation segment revenues Storage Terminalling Processing and Related Revenues [Member] Revenue from the storage, terminalling and processing of crude oil, refined products, LPG and natural gas during the period. Facilities segment revenues Purchases and Related Costs [Member] Costs related to the purchase of crude oil, refined products, LPG and natural gas storage during the period, primarily from gathering and marketing activities. Purchases and related costs Other Current Assets [Member] Current assets not separately disclosed in the balance sheet. Current assets are expected to be realized or consumed within one year (or the normal operating cycle, if longer). Other current assets Other Long-term Assets [Member] Noncurrent assets not separately disclosed in the balance sheet. Noncurrent assets are expected to be realized or consumed after one year (or the normal operating cycle, if longer). Other long-term assets Other Current Liabilities [Member] Current liabilities not separately disclosed in the balance sheet. Current liabilities are expected to be paid within one year (or the normal operating cycle, if longer). Other current liabilities Other Long-term Liabilities [Member] Noncurrent liabilities not separately disclosed in the balance sheet. Noncurrent liabilities are expected to be paid after one year (or the normal operating cycle, if longer). Other long-term liabilities Recurring Fair Value Measures Line items represent financial concepts included in a table. These concepts are used to disclose reportable information associated with domain members defined in one or many axes to the table. Fair Value Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring Basis Financial Statement Captions [Line Items] Derivative Fair Value of Derivative, Net Asset Liability Net asset/(liability) at fair value This element represents a certain statement of financial position asset (liability) caption which represents a class of assets (liabilities), or which may include an individual asset (liability), measured at fair value on a recurring basis. The inventory subcategory of natural gas. Natural Gas [Member] Natural gas Other Noncash Items Adjustments to Reconcile Net Income (Loss) to Cash Provided by Used in Operating Activities Other For the Condensed Consolidating Financial Information disclosures, this element represents the transactions that do not result in cash inflows or outflows during the period in which they occur, but affect net income and thus, are removed when calculating net cash flow from operating activities using the indirect cash flow method. This element is used when a more specific and appropriate element is not there. Condensed Consolidating Balance Sheet [Line Items] Line items represent financial concepts included in a table. These concepts are used to disclose reportable information associated with domain members defined in one or many axes to the table. Condensed Consolidating Balance Sheet Condensed Consolidating Statements of Operations Line items represent financial concepts included in a table. These concepts are used to disclose reportable information associated with domain members defined in one or many axes to the table. Condensed Consolidating Statements of Operations [Line Items] Net operating revenues Net Operating Revenue This element represents the net operating revenue earned during the period, which is calculated as total revenues less purchases and related costs. Condensed Consolidating Statements of Cash Flows Line items represent financial concepts included in a table. These concepts are used to disclose reportable information associated with domain members defined in one or many axes to the table. Condensed Consolidating Statements of Cash Flows [Line Items] Parts and Supplies [Member] The inventory subcategory of parts and supplies. Other Inventory disclosures Line items represent financial concepts included in a table. These concepts are used to disclose reportable information associated with domain members defined in one or many axes to the table. Inventory [Line Items] Unrealized gains/(losses): Unrealized Gains and Losses Relating to Level 3 Derivatives [Abstract] Fair Value Measurement with Unobservable Inputs Reconciliation Recurring Basis Derivative Net Asset (Liability) Gain (Loss) Included in Earnings Period Increase (Decrease) Change in unrealized gains/(losses) included in earnings relating to level 3 derivatives still held at the end of the periods This item represents the amount of the total change in unrealized (holding) gains or losses for the period which are included in the statement of income (or changes in net assets).Such unrealized (holding) gains or losses relate to those liabilities still held at the reporting date for which fair value is measured on a recurring basis using significant unobservable inputs (Level 3). Segment Pipeline Tariff Activities Trucking [Member] The segment of the entity pertaining to the transportation of crude oil and refined products. Transportation Segment Storage Terminalling Processing [Member] The segment of the entity pertaining to the storing, terminalling and processing of crude oil, refined products, LPG and natural gas. Facilities Segment Sales and Logistics [Member] The segment of the entity pertaining to the sale of crude oil, refined products, LPG and natural gas storage. Supply and Logistics Capital Expenditure Capital expenditures Expenditures made during the period to acquire and/or expand fixed assets. Capital expenditures made to expand the existing earnings capacity of our assets are considered expansion capital expenditures, not maintenance capital. Maintenance capital Maintenance Capital Capital expenditures made during the period for the replacement of partially or fully depreciated assets in order to maintain the service capability, level of production, and/or functionality of the company's existing assets. Schedule of Condensed Consolidating Balance Sheet [Table Text Block] Disclosure of the condensed consolidating balance sheets, normally using the registrant (parent) as the sole domain member. If condensed consolidating financial statements are being presented, other domain members (in addition to parent) such as guarantor subsidiaries, non-guarantor subsidiaries, and the consolidation eliminations, will be included in order that the respective monetary amounts for each of the domains will aggregate to the respective amounts on the consolidated financial statements. Condensed Consolidating Balance Sheet Long-Lived Assets Long-lived assets other than financial instruments, long-term customer relationships of a financial institution, mortgage and other servicing rights, deferred policy acquisition costs, and deferred tax assets. Long-Lived Assets Inventory [Table] Schedule disclosing the various components of inventory. LPG [Member] The inventory subcategory of liquefied petroleum gas (LPG). LPG Refined Products [Member] The inventory subcategory of refined products. Refined products Proceeds from Sale of Linefill Proceeds from sale of pipeline linefill This element represents the cash inflow that is associated with sale of linefill during the reporting period. Inventory, Current and Noncurrent Inventory (value in dollars) This element represents the aggregate of current and non-current inventory. Total Inventory, Volumes in Barrels Inventory (volumes in barrels) The volumes of inventory as of the balance sheet date, as denoted in barrels. Inventory, Volumes in Cubic Feet Inventory (volumes in cubic feet) The volumes of inventory as of the balance sheet date, as denoted in cubic feet. Inventory, Weighted Average Price Per Unit Inventory, weighted average price per unit (in dollars per unit) The weighted-average price per unit of inventory. UNITED STATES United States CANADA Canada Purchases and Related Costs Purchases and Related Costs [Policy Text Block] Describes the entity's accounting policies for recognition of costs in the period which correspond to purchases and related costs presented in the statement of operations. Vulcan Energy Corporation [Member] This element represents information pertaining to Vulcan Energy Corporation and its affiliate, a related party of Plains All American Pipeline LP. Vulcan Energy Corporation Costs Reimbursed to General Partner Costs reimbursed to general partner Cost reimbursements made to the general partner of the entity. Schedule of Fair Value of Assets Liabilities Business Acquisition [Text Block] Business acquisition fair value of assets and liabilities allocation - PNGS Acquisition Disclosure of 100% of the fair values of the assets and liabilities of the acquiree in a business combination. Acquisitions in 2009 [Member] This element represents information pertaining to acquisitions made in 2009. 2009 Acquisitions Other 2009 Acquisitions [Member] Represents the information pertaining to other acquisitions made in 2009. Other 2009 Acquisitions Capline and Associated Tankage [Member] Represents the information pertaining to Capline and associated Tankage. Capline And associated Tankage Acquisitions in 2008 [Member] This element represents information pertaining to acquisitions made in 2008. 2008 Acquisitions Other 2008 Acquisitions [Member] This element represents information pertaining to other acquisitions made in 2008. Other 2008 Acquisitions Acquisitions in 2007 [Member] Represents the information pertaining to acquisitions made in 2007. 2007 Acquisitions Commercial Refined Products Supply and Marketing Business [Member] This element represents information pertaining to supply and marketing business of commercial refined products. Commercial refined products supply and marketing business Trucking Business [Member] This element represents information pertaining to trucking business. Trucking business Bumstead LPG Storage Facility [Member] This element represents information pertaining to Bumstead LPG storage Facility. Bumstead LPG storage facility Tirzah LPG Storage Facility and Other Assets [Member] This element represents information pertaining to Tirzah LPG Storage Facility and other assets. Tirzah LPG storage facility and other assets Number of Installments to Pay Business Acquisition Contingent Consideration This element represents the number of installments over which contingent consideration for acquisition is paid. Number of installments for payment of contingent purchase consideration Business Acquisition Contingent Consideration Potential Cash Payment in each Installment The amount of each installment of potential cash payments that could result from the contingent consideration arrangement. Business acquisition contingent consideration potential cash payable in each installment Number of Natural Gas Storage Facilities The number of natural gas storage facilities owned. Number of natural gas storage facilities owned and operated Aggregate Working Gas Storage Capacity The aggregate working gas storage capacity of natural gas facilities owned, as expressed in billion cubic feet (Bcf). Aggregate working gas storage capacity in facilities owned by PNGS (in Bcf) Aggregate Peak Injection Capacity The aggregate peak injection capacity of the natural gas facilities owned, expressed in billions of cubic feet per day. Aggregate peak injection capacity of facilities owned by PNGS (in Bcf per day) Aggregate Peak Withdrawal Capacity Per Day The aggregate peak withdrawal capacity of the natural gas facilities owned, expressed in billions of cubic feet per day. Aggregate peak withdrawal capacity (in Bcf per day) Storage Capacity under Lease The aggregate natural gas storage capacity under lease from third parties, expressed in billion cubic feet. Storage capacity under lease from third parties by PNGS (in Bcf) Discount Rate Used for Calculating Present Value of Deferred Contingent Cash Consideration The discount rate used for calculating the present value of the deferred contingent cash consideration in a business acquisition. Discount rate used for calculating present value of deferred contingent cash consideration (as a percent) Business Acquisition, Mainline Crude Oil Pipelines Acquired Mainline crude oil pipelines acquired (in miles) The mainline crude oil pipelines acquired in a business combination, expressed in miles of pipeline. Business Acquisition, Gathering Pipelines Acquired Gathering pipelines acquired (in miles) The gathering pipelines acquired in a business combination, expressed in miles of pipeline. Business Acquisition, Tankage Acquired Tankage acquired (in barrels) The tankage acquired in a business combination, expressed in barrels. Business Acquisition, Crude Oil Linefill Acquired Crude oil linefill acquired (in barrels) The crude oil linefill acquired in a business combination, expressed in barrels. Business Acquisition, System Throughput Capacity Acquired The throughput capacity of the system acquired in a business acquisition, expressed in barrels per day. Throughput capacity of linefill system acquired (in barrels per day) Related Party Transaction, Annual Administrative Services Fee Annual fee received by general partner from related party for providing administrative services The annual fee to be received by the entity's general partner from a related party for administrative services provided by the general partner. Disclosure of components of a particular unit class of the general partnership; comprised of the changes related to issuance and units earned in the quantity of the units reserved for future grants, outstanding, and outstanding units earned and the grant date fair value of outstanding Class B units related to issuance and units earned. Schedule of Share-based Compensation Class B Units Award Activity [Table Text Block] Summary of Class B unit awards Schedule of Share-based Payment Awards Expenses [Table Text Block] Summary of expense recognized and value of vesting related to outstanding equity compensation awards Disclosure that sets forth the allocation of equity compensation plan expenses to a given line item on the balance sheet and income statement for the period, the fair value of vesting (settled both in units and cash) related to the company's equity compensation plans, and the cash payments related to distribution equivalent rights. Schedule of Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Fair Value Amortization [Table Text Block] Equity compensation plan fair value amortization Disclosure that sets forth the estimated equity compensation plan fair value amortization to be recognized as an expense in future periods. Employees and Directors Long-term Incentive Plan [Member] This element represents the long-term incentive plans offered to the employees and directors of the entity. Employees and Directors LTIP Non-Officer Employee Long-term Incentive Tracking Unit Plan [Member] Represents the long-term incentive tracking unit plan offered to the non-officer employees of the entity. Non-officer Employee Long-term Incentive Tracking Unit Plan Long-term Incentive Plans [Member] Long-term incentive plans represent awards granted to company employees in which certain performance conditions must be met in order for the employee to receive compensation in the form of either units or cash payment. PAA Long-term Incentive Plans Share-based Compensation Shares, Outstanding under Equity Compensation Plans by Annualized Vesting, Distribution Range [Axis] Reflects the required information pertaining to phantom units granted by distribution range. Share-based Compensation Shares, Outstanding under Equity Compensation Plans by Annualized Vesting, Distribution Range [Domain] Domain of a series of domain members (for example, Range01, Range02, Range03...), wherein the purpose of each member for each customized range of vesting of annualized distribution amounts, is to disclose units that are potentially issuable under outstanding plan and other required information pertaining to awards for each of the range members. General Partner Ownership Interest in Net Income (Loss) after Incentive Distribution Less: General partner 2% ownership The 2% General Partner's allocation of the Net Income after incentive distribution is paid. Number of Principal Owners Number of principal owners of Plains AAP, L.P., and Plains All American GP LLC The number of principal owners of the companies that ultimately own the reporting entity. Annualized Vesting Distribution Amount Dollars 3.20 [Member] This element represents the annualized distribution amount of $3.20 per unit. Annualized Vesting Distribution Amount $3.20 Range of Annualized Vesting Distribution Amount Dollars from 3.75 to Dollars 4.45 [Member] This element represents the range of annualized distribution level from $3.75 to $4.45 per unit. Range of annualized vesting distribution amount from $3.75 to $4.45 Range of Annualized Vesting Distribution Amount Dollars from 3.80 to Dollars 4.25 [Member] This element represents the range of annualized distribution level from $3.80 to $4.25 per unit. Range of annualized vesting distribution amount from $3.80 to $4.25 Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Vesting in Year One Estimated unit vesting in 2012 (in units) The decrease in the number of shares that are potentially issuable under a share-based award plan pertaining to awards, for which the grantee has gained the right during the reporting period, by satisfying service and performance requirements to receive or retain shares, other instruments or cash in accordance with the terms of the arrangement during the twelve-month period, following the balance sheet date. The ceiling of a customized range of annualized distribution amounts required for vesting. Share-based Compensation, Shares Authorized under Equity Compensation Plans by Annualized Distribution, Upper Range Limit Annualized distribution, high end of range (in dollars per unit) Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Including Distribution Equivalent Rights, Nonvested Number Units outstanding that include DERs (in units) This element represents the portion of outstanding units, which include distribution equivalent rights that entitles the grantee to a cash payment equal to the cash distribution paid on an outstanding common unit. Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Acquired in period Acquired (in units) The number of units that were granted to employees of any acquired companies in prior years that are now included in our consolidated number of outstanding units. Maximum Percentage Participation for Distribution in Excess of Threshold Maximum participation in excess of distribution (as a percent) The percentage of maximum participation in excess of threshold distribution level as adjusted for debt service costs and excluding special distributions funded by debt. Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Vesting in Year Two Estimated unit vesting in 2013 (in units) The decrease in the number of shares that are potentially issuable under a share-based award plan pertaining to awards, for which the grantee has gained the right during the reporting period, by satisfying service and performance requirements to receive or retain shares, other instruments or cash in accordance with the terms of the arrangement during the second twelve-month period, following the balance sheet date. Vested awards settled in cash (in units) Represents the vested units which were settled in cash during the reporting period as a result of any share-based compensation plan other than an employee stock ownership plan. Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Shares Issued in period, Settled in Cash Equity-based Compensation, Fair Value, Future Amortization [Abstract] Equity Compensation Plan Fair Value Amortization Class B Activity [Roll Forward] Reserved for Future Grants Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Reserved for Future Grants, Outstanding The number of authorized units of the general partnership that have not yet been granted/issued and are reserved for future grants. Reserved for future issuances Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Acquired in period, Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value Acquired (in dollars per unit) The weighted average fair value as of the grant date of share-based award plans other than stock option plans of any acquired companies during the reporting period. Annualized Distribution Level One Annualized distribution level one (in dollars per unit) Level one annualized distribution amount. Annualized Distribution Level Two Annualized distribution level two (in dollars per unit) Level two annualized distribution amount. Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Vesting in Year Three Estimated unit vesting in 2014 (in units) The decrease in the number of shares that are potentially issuable under a share-based award plan pertaining to awards, for which the grantee has gained the right during the reporting period, by satisfying service and performance requirements to receive or retain shares, other instruments or cash in accordance with the terms of the arrangement during the third twelve-month period, following the balance sheet date. Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Vesting in Year Four Estimated unit vesting in 2015 (in units) The decrease in the number of shares that are potentially issuable under a share-based award plan pertaining to awards, for which the grantee has gained the right during the reporting period, by satisfying service and performance requirements to receive or retain shares, other instruments or cash in accordance with the terms of the arrangement during the fourth twelve-month period, following the balance sheet date. Share-based Compensation, Shares Authorized under Equity Compensation Plans by Annualized Distribution, Lower Range Limit Annualized distribution, low end of range (in dollars per unit) The floor of a customized range of annualized distribution amounts required for vesting. Other Consolidated Equity Compensation Information [Abstract] Other Consolidated Equity Compensation Information Distribution Equivalent Rights Cash Payments DER cash payments Aggregate cash payments made towards distribution equivalent rights during the reporting period that have been earned by satisfying service and performance requirements. Annualized Distribution Level Three Annualized distribution level three (in dollars per unit) Level three annualized distribution amount. Annualized Distribution Level Four Annualized distribution level four (in dollars per unit) Level four annualized distribution amount. Distribution Threshold for Participation in Distributions Threshold on distributions paid for participation in award The threshold limit beyond which the holders of the awards are entitled to participate in distributions, if the entity makes such distributions. Outstanding Units [Roll Forward] Outstanding Outstanding Units Earned [Roll Forward] Outstanding Units Earned Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Units Earned, Outstanding The number of outstanding awards on non-stock option plans for which the employer has issued equity instruments to an employee and the units issued have been earned as required performance conditions have been met, giving the employee the right to receive quarterly distributions. Outstanding Units Earned (in units) Grant Date Fair Value of Outstanding Class B Units [Roll Forward] Grant Date Fair Value of Outstanding Class B Units: Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Option, Nonvested, Grant Date Fair Value Grant Date Fair Value of Outstanding Class B Units, beginning balance The grant date fair value of outstanding units. Grant Date Fair Value of Outstanding Class B Units, ending balance Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Grants in Period, Grant Date Fair Value Units issued The grant date fair value of units granted/issued. Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Vested in Period, Grant Date Fair Value Units earned The grant date fair value of units earned. Inventory Related Disclosures [Abstract] Inventory-related disclosures Inventory by Category [Abstract] Inventory by category Schedule of Cash Distributions Paid or to be Paid [Text Block] Total cash distributions paid or to be paid Schedule of payments of cash paid or to be paid to the limited partners and the general partner, including both the 2% owner and incentive distribution rights holders. Schedule of Capital Units Issued During Period [Table Text Block] Equity offerings of common units Disclosure of capital units issued in equity offerings during the period. Percentage Distribution of Available Cash Percentage of available cash distributed (as a percent) This element represents the percentage of cash distributed out of available cash. Number of Days Required for Distribution to Unitholders after End of Quarter Number of days required for distribution to unit holders after end of quarter This element represents the number of days required for distribution of cash to unit holders after the end of the relevant quarter. Reduction in All Incentive Distributions The reduction in the amount of incentive distributions paid and to be made in the future to the general partner related to acquisitions made. Reduction in incentive distributions related to acquisition, total Period for Reduction of Incentive Period for reduction of incentive (in years) This element represents number of years over which reduction in incentive is agreed by general partners. Reduction in Incentive Distributions Peryear for First Two Years Reduction in incentive distributions per year for the first two years (in dollars per year) This element represents the reduction in incentive distributions per year for the first two years. General Partner Distribution Level One [Member] Level one quarterly general partner incentive distribution. General Partner Distribution - Level One General Partner Distribution Level Two [Member] Level two quarterly general partner incentive distribution. General Partner Distribution - Level Two General Partner Distribution Level Three [Member] Level three quarterly general partner incentive distribution. General Partner Distribution - Level Three Pacific Energy Partners LP [Member] This element represents the information pertaining to the acquisition of Pacific Energy Partners LP. Pacific Partners Capital and Distribution [Line Items] Partners Capital and Distribution Distribution Made to Member or Limited Partner, Per Unit over Minimum Distribution Level Cash distributions per common unit excess over MQD (in dollars per unit) The per-unit cash dividend declared or paid to a common shareholder or a unit-holder by a LLC or LP in excess of the minimum distribution level. Reduction in Incentive Distributions for Third Year and Thereafter Reduction in incentive distributions per year for the third year and thereafter (in dollars per year) This element represents the reduction in incentive distributions per year third year and thereafter. SLC Pipeline This element represents the information pertaining to SLC Pipeline LLC. SLC Pipeline LLC [Member] Construction of Pipeline Completed Construction of pipeline completed in Salt Lake City Area system (in miles) This element represents the length of construction of pipeline completed during the period. Partners' Capital, Cash Contribution Made by Co-venturer Cash contribution made by Holly Energy Partners LP The cash contribution made by a co-venture to the joint venture, as recorded in partners' capital. Limited Partners Unit Price, Per Unit Gross Unit Price (in dollars per unit) This element represents the gross unit price per capital unit. Expense for Withholding Taxes Payment for Canadian withholding taxes This element represents the amount of expense during the current period for withholding taxes. Canadian withholding tax Reduction in Incentive Distributions [Abstract] Reduction in incentive distributions Income Not Subject to Foreign Tax Partnership earnings not subject to current Canadian tax The earnings of the entity which are not subject to foreign enacted tax laws. Foreign Tax Rate Canadian federal and provincial corporate tax rate (as a percent) This element represents the rate at which the foreign income of an entity is charged to tax as per the enacted tax laws. Foreign Period Tax on Book Versus Tax Differences Canadian period tax as a result of book versus tax differences The temporary book versus tax differences in the current foreign income tax expense/benefit. Foreign Period Tax on Permanent Book Versus Tax Differences Canadian permanent differences between book and tax The permanent book versus tax differences in the current foreign income tax expense/benefit. Income Subject to Foreign Tax Partnership earnings subject to current Canadian tax The earnings of the entity which are subject to foreign enacted tax laws. Foreign Deferred Tax Expenses (Benefit) on Book Versus Tax Differences Canadian deferred tax (benefit)/expense as a result of book versus tax differences The temporary book versus tax differences in the deferred foreign income tax expense/benefit. Foreign Flow Through Entities Deferred Tax Expenses (Benefit) on Book Versus Tax Differences Canadian flow-through entities deferred tax (benefit)/expense as a result of book versus tax differences This element represents the foreign 'flow through entities' deferred tax expense/ benefit on book versus tax differences. Environmental insurance policy aggregate coverage limit This element represents the aggregate coverage limit of environmental insurance policy taken by third party, to which the reporting entity is a beneficiary. Environmental Insurance Policy Taken by Third Party Aggregate Coverage Limit Valero Marketing and Supply Company [Member] Represents the information pertaining to Valero Marketing and Supply Company. Valero Marketing and Supply Company Conocophillips Company [Member] Represents the information pertaining to ConocoPhillips Company. ConocoPhillips Company Operating and Capital Leases, Future Minimum Payments Due, Current 2012 The required rental payments and other costs due within one year of the balance sheet date relating to leases defined as operating and capital and generally having an initial or remaining non-cancelable lease terms in excess of one year. Operating and Capital Leases, Future Minimum Payments Due, in Two Years 2013 The required rental payments and other costs due within the second year of the balance sheet date relating to leases defined as operating and capital and generally having an initial or remaining non-cancelable lease terms in excess of one year. Operating and Capital Lease Expenditures Expenditures related to leases The required rental payments and other costs expended during the period on leases defined as operating and capital which generally have initial or remaining non-cancelable lease terms in excess of one year. Sem Crude LP [Member] Represents the information pertaining to SemCrude L.P. SemCrude L.P. Pacific Pipeline System LLC [Member] Represents the information pertaining to Pacific Pipeline System, LLC. Pacific Pipeline System, LLC Foreign Income Tax Expense (Benefit) at Foreign Statutory Rate Income tax at statutory rate The amount of foreign income tax expense or benefit for the period computed by applying the foreign statutory tax rates to foreign pretax income from continuing operations. Texas New Mexico [Member] This element represents the information pertaining to Texas New Mexico. Texas New Mexico pipeline assets purchased from Link Environmental Remediation Costs, Business Seller Share Environmental remediation costs borne by the seller of a business acquired by the reporting entity Represents the share of the environmental remediation costs borne by the seller of a business that was acquired by the reporting entity. Premium Per Site for Environmental Insurance Policy Amount deductible per site for environmental insurance policy This element represents the premium deductible per site for environmental insurance policy. Pacific Atlantic Terminals LLC [Member] Represents the information pertaining to Plains Products Terminals LLC (PPT), formerly known as Pacific Atlantic Terminals LLC (PAT), which was previously owned by ExxonMobil and GATX and was acquired during the Pacific merger. Plains Products Terminals LLC Senior Secured Hedged Inventory Debt Facility [Member] Represents Senior secured hedged inventory credit facility that is scheduled to mature in August 2013. Senior secured hedged inventory facility maturing in August 2013 Fixed Rate Senior Notes [Member] Represents the fixed rate senior notes. Fixed rate senior notes Senior Notes Due in August 2009 at 4.75 Percent [Member] Represents 4.75 percent senior notes which were due in August 2009. 4.75% senior notes due August 2009 Operating and Capital Leases, Future Minimum Payments Due, in Three Years 2014 The required rental payments and other costs due within the third year of the balance sheet date relating to leases defined as operating and capital and generally having an initial or remaining non-cancelable lease terms in excess of one year. Operating and Capital Leases, Future Minimum Payments Due, in Four Years 2015 The required rental payments and other costs due within the fourth year of the balance sheet date relating to leases defined as operating and capital and generally having an initial or remaining non-cancelable lease terms in excess of one year. Operating and Capital Leases, Future Minimum Payments Due, in Five Years 2016 The required rental payments and other costs due within the fifth year of the balance sheet date relating to leases defined as operating and capital and generally having an initial or remaining non-cancelable lease terms in excess of one year. Operating and Capital Leases, Future Minimum Payments Due, Thereafter Thereafter The required rental payments and other costs due after the fifth year of the balance sheet date relating to leases defined as operating and capital and generally having an initial or remaining non-cancelable lease terms in excess of one year. Operating and Capital Leases, Future Minimum Payments Due Total The total of all future contractually required rental payments and other costs on leases defined as operating and capital and generally having an initial or remaining non-cancelable lease terms in excess of one year. Senior Notes Due in September 2012 at 4.25 Percent [Member] Represents 4.25 percent senior notes, which are due in September 2012. 4.25% senior notes due September 2012 Senior Notes Due in October 2012 at 7.75 Percent [Member] Represents 7.75 percent senior notes, which are due in October 2012. 7.75% senior notes due October 2012 Senior Notes Due in December 2013 at 5.63 Percent [Member] Represents 5.63 percent senior notes, which are due in December 2013. 5.63% senior notes due December 2013 Senior Notes Due in June 2014 at 7.13 Percent [Member] Represents 7.13 percent senior notes, which are due in June 2014. 7.13% senior notes due June 2014 Other Nonoperating Income Expense [Member] The net amount of other nonoperating income and expense, which does not qualify for separate disclosure on the income statement under materiality guidelines. Other income/(expense), net Fair Value Measurement with Unobservable Inputs, Reconciliation Recurring Basis Derivative, Net Asset (Liability) Value The derivative net asset/liability balance measured at fair value using significant unobservable inputs (Level 3) which is required for reconciliation purposes of beginning and ending balances. Beginning Balance Ending Balance Fair Value Measurement with Unobservable Inputs Reconciliation, Recurring Basis Derivative, Net Asset (Liability) Gain (Loss) Included in Earnings The total gains or losses for the period (realized and unrealized), arising from the derivative net asset/liability balance measured at fair value on a recurring basis using unobservable inputs (Level 3) which are included in earnings or resulted in a changed in net asset/liability balance. Included in earnings Fair Value Measurement with Unobservable Inputs Reconciliation, Recurring Basis Derivative, Net Asset (Liability) Gain (Loss) Included in Other Comprehensive Income The total gains or losses for the period (realized and unrealized), arising from the derivative net asset/liability balance measured at fair value on a recurring basis using unobservable inputs (Level 3) which are included in other comprehensive income (a separate component of shareholders' equity). Included in other comprehensive income Fair Value Measurement with Unobservable Inputs Reconciliation, Recurring Basis Derivative, Net Asset (Liability) Purchases, Sales Issuances Settlements Purchases, sales, issuances, and settlements (net) which have taken place during the period in relation to the derivative net asset/liability balance measured at fair value on a recurring basis using unobservable inputs (Level 3). Settlements and derivatives entered into during the period Senior Notes Due in June 2015 at 5.25 Percent [Member] Represents 5.25 percent senior notes, which are due in June 2015. 5.25% senior notes due June 2015 Senior Notes Due in September 2015 at 6.25 Percent [Member] Represents 6.25 percent senior notes, which are due in September 2015. 6.25% senior notes due September 2015 Senior Notes Due in August 2016 at 5.88 Percent [Member] Represents 5.88 percent senior notes, which are due in August 2016. 5.88% senior notes due August 2016 Senior Notes Due in January 2017 at 6.13 Percent [Member] Represents 6.13 percent senior notes, which are due in January 2017. 6.13% senior notes due January 2017 Senior Notes Due in May 2018 at 6.50 Percent [Member] Represents 6.50 percent senior notes, which are due in May 2018. 6.50% senior notes due May 2018 Senior Notes Due in May 2019 at 8.75 Percent [Member] Represents 8.75 percent senior notes, which are due in May 2019. 8.75% senior notes due May 2019 Senior Notes Due in January 2020 at 5.75 Percent [Member] Represents 5.75 percent senior notes, which are due in January 2020. 5.75% senior notes due January 2020 Senior Notes Due in May 2036 at 6.70 Percent [Member] Represents 6.70 percent senior notes, which are due in May 2036. 6.70% senior notes due May 2036 Senior Notes Due in January 2037 at 6.65 Percent [Member] Represents 6.65 percent senior notes, which are due in January 2037. 6.65% senior notes due January 2037 Senior Unsecured Revolving Credit Facility [Member] Represents the PAA senior unsecured revolving credit facility. PAA senior unsecured revolving credit facility maturing in August 2016 Canadian Senior Unsecured Revolving Credit Facility [Member] Represents the Canadian sub-facility of the PAA senior unsecured revolving credit facility that is used for Canadian borrowings. Canadian sub-facility Percentage of Face Value at which Senior Notes are Sold Percentage of face value at which senior notes are sold This element represents the percentage of face value of senior notes, at which they are sold. Notional Principal Amount on which Interest Spread will be Calculated Notional principal amount on which interest spread will be calculated This element represents the notional principal amount on which interest spread will be calculated for interest rate swap. Period of Maturities of Notional Principal Amount on which Interest Spread will be Calculated Period of maturity of notional principal amount on which interest spread will be calculated (in years) This element represents the period of maturity of notional principal amount, on which interest spread will be calculated. Additional Notional Principal Amount on which Interest Spread will be Calculated Additional notional principal amount on which interest spread will be calculated This element represents the additional notional principal amount, on which interest spread will be calculated for interest rate swap. Period of Maturities of Additional Notional Principal Amount on which Interest Spread will be Calculated Period of maturity of additional notional principal amount on which interest spread will be calculated (in years) This element represents the period of maturity of additional notional principal amount, on which interest spread will be calculated. Amount of Acquisition beyond which Requirement of Debt to EBITDA will Change Amount of acquisition beyond which requirement of debt to EBITDA coverage ratio will change The threshold used to determine a defined acquisition period for debt covenant ratio purposes. If this threshold is exceeded, an 'acquisition period' is deemed to exist for a specified period of time. Long-term Debt Weighted Average Life Weighted-average life of long-term debt This element represents the weighted-average life of long-term debt. Equity-based Compensation, Fair Value, Future Amortization Expense, Year One 2012 The amount of amortization expense expected to be recognized during the twelve-month period following the balance sheet date for the amortization of the unrecognized expense based on fair value of outstanding awards related to equity compensation plans. Equity-based Compensation, Fair Value, Future Amortization Expense, Year Two 2013 The amount of amortization expense expected to be recognized during the second twelve-month period following the balance sheet date for the amortization of the unrecognized expense based on fair value of outstanding awards related to equity compensation plans. Equity-based Compensation, Fair Value, Future Amortization Expense, Year Three 2014 The amount of amortization expense expected to be recognized during the third twelve-month period following the balance sheet date for the amortization of the unrecognized expense based on fair value of outstanding awards related to equity compensation plans. Equity-based Compensation, Fair Value, Future Amortization Expense, Year Four 2015 The amount of amortization expense expected to be recognized during the fourth twelve-month period following the balance sheet date for the amortization of the unrecognized expense based on fair value of outstanding awards related to equity compensation plans. Equity-based Compensation, Fair Value, Future Amortization Expense, Year Five 2016 The amount of amortization expense expected to be recognized during the fifth twelve-month period following the balance sheet date for the amortization of the unrecognized expense based on fair value of outstanding awards related to equity compensation plans. Equity-based Compensation, Fair Value, Future Amortization Expense Total The total amount of amortization expense expected to be recognized after the balance sheet date for the amortization of the unrecognized expense based on fair value of outstanding awards related to equity compensation plans. Equity-based Compensation Plan Class B Units of Plains AAPLP [Member] Represents the information pertaining to the class B units of Plains AAP, L.P. reported by a business entity. AAP LP Class B Units Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options Including Distribution Equivalent Rights, Earned Number The number of outstanding distribution equivalent rights that are vested as of the balance sheet date. DERs currently vested (in units) Share-based Compensation by Share-based Payment Award, Performance-based Units, Probable Annualized Distribution Level The probable annualized distribution amount for the purpose of accruing for outstanding equity compensation awards with performance conditions related to annualized distributions. Probable annual distribution level (in dollars per unit) Storage Capacity Owned but Not Used in Operations Storage capacity owned but not used in entity's transportation operations (in barrels) Volume of barrels of storage capacity owned but not used in the entity's transportation operations. Number of Interest Rate Swaps That Terminate in the Twelve Months Following the Balance Sheet Date Number of interest rate swaps that terminate in 2012 (in contracts) The number of interest rate swaps that terminate in the twelve months following the balance sheet date. Related Party Transaction, Annual Administrative Services Fee, Successive Renewal Period, in Years Successive renewal period for annual administrative services fee agreement (in years) The automatic successive renewal period in years for the annual administrative services fee agreement if neither party provides written notice to terminate the agreement, as stated in years. PAA Vulcan Gas Storage [Member] Represents information pertaining to PAA/Vulcan Gas Storage LLC, an entity formed by the reporting entity and Vulcan Gas Storage LLC. This entity was formed to acquire ECI (now known as PAA Natural Gas Storage, LLC or "PNGS"). PAA/Vulcan Gas Storage LLC Bluewater Natural Gas Storage [Member] Information pertaining to Bluewater Natural Gas Storage, LLC, a subsidiary of PAA/Vulcan. Bluewater Natural Gas Storage, LLC Related Party Transaction, Credit Facility Entered upon Acquisition Credit facility entered into by related party as part of acquisition of ECI The amount of the credit facility entered into by a related party as part of the acquisition of a business by the reporting entity and another related party. Vulcan Gas Storage [Member] Information pertaining to Vulcan Gas Storage LLC, a subsidiary of Vulcan LLC, an investments arm of Paul G. Allen, a related party to Plains All American Pipeline, LP. Vulcan Gas Storage LLC Pipeline Transportation Capacity Secured from Third Parties The volume of natural gas pipeline transportation service secured from third parties, expressed in million cubic feet per day. Pipeline transportation capacity right secured from third parties by PNGS (in MMcf per day) Business Acquisition, Canadian Dollars to United States Dollar Foreign Currency Exchange Rate on Acquisition Date The foreign currency exchange rate that was prevailing on the date of the business acquisition for converting Canadian dollars (CAD) to United States dollars (USD). CAD to USD foreign exchange rate at date of Rainbow acquisition (rate in hundredths) Shell Oil Products Asset Acquisition [Member] Information pertaining to the assets acquisition from Shell Oil Products. Crude oil transmission and gathering assets acquired from Shell Oil Products ("SOP")in 2002 Environmental Remediation Costs for Acquisitions Selling Company Responsibility Amount of environmental remediation costs above which the costs the selling entity agreed to pay all costs The dollar amount of environmental remediation costs related to a business acquisition above which the costs will be borne by the selling entity, as stated in the business acquisition agreement. Short-term Borrowings Repayment Period The period, in years, within which the short-term borrowings must be repaid. Repayment period (in years) Environmental Remediation, Cash Expenditures, Period in Years, Low End of Range Actual cash expenditures for environmental liabilities, period paid, low end of range (in years) The low end of the range of the estimated period of time when actual cash expenditures are made for environmental liabilities, as stated in years. Environmental Remediation, Cash Expenditures, Period in Years, High End of Range Actual cash expenditures for environmental liabilities, period paid, high end of range (in years) The high end of the range of the estimated period of time when actual cash expenditures are made for environmental liabilities, as stated in years. Cash distribution declared (in dollars per unit) Distribution Declared to Member or Limited Partner, Cash Distribution Per Unit Per-share or per-unit cash distribution declared or paid to common shareholders or unit-holders by a LLC or a LP. General Partner Distribution Rate Percent for distribution to the general partner above threshold amount (as a percent) The percentage for quarterly distributions paid to the general partner above the threshold amount. General Partner Incentive Distribution Threshold Quarterly incentive distribution threshold amount (in dollars per unit) The threshold amount for the quarterly incentive distribution to be made to the general partner. Distribution Paid to General Partner, Cash Flow Side Distributions paid to general partner (Note 9) Distributions paid to general partner The cash outflow due to distributions to the general partner. Partners' Capital Account, (Loss) on Formation of Joint Venture Loss recognized in partners' capital relating to formation of joint venture The loss recognized in partners' capital relating to the formation of a joint venture, which represents the difference between the cash contribution received from the co-venturer and the book value of the co-venturers' interest in the net assets of the joint venture. Schedule of Per Unit Cash Distributions and Excess over Minimum Quarterly Distributions [Text Block] Per unit cash distributions and the portion of the distributions representing an excess over the MQD Disclosure of per unit cash distributions declared and paid to the outstanding units during the accounting period, including the disclosure of the per unit excess over minimum quarterly distributions ("MQD"). This element represents the other ranges of annualized distribution level. Annualized Vesting Distribution Other Range [Member] Other ranges of annualized vesting distribution Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Vesting in Year Five Estimated unit vesting in 2016 (in units) The decrease in the number of shares that are potentially issuable under a share-based award plan pertaining to awards, for which the grantee has gained the right during the reporting period, by satisfying service and performance requirements to receive or retain shares, other instruments or cash in accordance with the terms of the arrangement during the fifth twelve-month period, following the balance sheet date. Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Period for Increment in Distributions Increment period (in days) Represents the period (in days) after the annualized distribution occurs, which the unit holder will have to wait before becoming eligible to receive distributions. Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Vesting Rights on Fifth Anniversary of Date of Grant Award vesting rights on the fifth anniversary of the date of grant (as a percent) Represents the percentage of awards, which vest on the fifth anniversary of the grant date. Net deferred losses from interest rate risk hedging included in AOCI Amount of gain or loss related to terminated interest rate swaps and treasury locks that were designated for hedge accounting. Gain (Loss) on Interest Rate Cash Flow Hedges, Pretax Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income Remediation Costs Incurred Since Business Acquired Remediation costs incurred since acquisition of a business The amount of acquisition-to-date environmental remediation costs incurred by the reporting entity related to a business that was acquired. Schedule of Revenues from External Customers by Geographical Areas [Table Text Block] Revenues attributable to geographical areas This element may be used to disclose in its entirety the names of foreign countries from which revenue is material. Schedule of Cash Distributions Made [Text Block] Total cash distributions made Schedule of payments of cash made to the limited partners and the general partner, including both the 2% owner and incentive distribution rights holders. Partners' Capital and Distributions [Table] Disclosure reflecting information pertaining to Partners' Capital and related distributions. Distributions and Excess over Minimum Quarterly Distribution [Domain] Disclosure of per unit cash distributions declared and paid to the outstanding units during the accounting period, including the disclosure of the per unit excess over minimum quarterly distributions ("MQD"). Distributions and Excess over Minimum Quarterly Distributions [Axis] Disclosure of per unit cash distributions declared and paid to the outstanding units during the accounting period, including the disclosure of the per unit excess over minimum quarterly distributions ("MQD"). PNG Long-term Incentive Plans [Member] Represents PNG's long-term incentive plans offered to employees, directors and consultants of the entity. PNG Long Term Incentive Plan Awards PNG Transaction Grants [Member] Represents PNG Transaction Grants offered to employees, directors and consultants of the entity. PNG Transaction Grants Range of Annualized Vesting Distribution Amount Dollars from 1.55 to Dollars 1.90 [Member] This element represents the range of the annualized distribution level from $1.55 to $1.90 per unit. Range of annualized vesting distribution amount from $1.55 to $1.90 Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Vesting Rights after Fifth Anniversary of Date of Grant Award vesting rights after the fifth anniversary of the date of grant (as a percent) Represents the percentage of awards, which vest immediately if the units become earned after the fifth anniversary of the grant date. Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Award Vesting Rights in Percentage Represents the percentage of awards, which vests immediately upon becoming earned units. Award vesting rights (as a percent) Disclosure of the condensed consolidating statements of operations, normally using the registrant (parent) as the sole domain member. If condensed consolidating financial statements are being presented, other domain members (in addition to parent) such as guarantor subsidiaries, non-guarantor subsidiaries, and the consolidation eliminations, will be included in order that the respective monetary amounts for each of the domains will aggregate to the respective amounts on the consolidated financial statements. Schedule of Condensed Consolidating Statements of Operations [Table Text Block] Condensed Consolidating Statements of Operations Schedule of Condensed Consolidating Statements of Cash Flows [Table Text Block] Condensed Consolidating Statements of Cash Flows Disclosure of the condensed consolidating statements of cash flows, normally using the registrant (parent) as the sole domain member. If condensed consolidating financial statements are being presented, other domain members (in addition to parent) such as guarantor subsidiaries, non-guarantor subsidiaries, and the consolidation eliminations, will be included in order that the respective monetary amounts for each of the domains will aggregate to the respective amounts on the consolidated financial statements. Emission Reduction Credits Utilized Emission reduction credits utilized The emission credits utilized as of the balance sheet date being reported. PNG Transaction Grants [Abstract] PNG Transaction Grants Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Vested and Expected to Vest, Grants in Period Phantom common units granted (in units) The number of shares (or other type of equity) issuable under an equity-based award plan pertaining to grants made during the period on other than stock (or unit) option plans (for example, phantom stock or unit plan, stock or unit appreciation rights plan, performance target plan) vested and expected to vest upon the completion of the service period and certain performance conditions. PNG Class B Units [Member] Represents details pertaining to the PNG Class B units. Class B Units of PNGS GP LLC Schedule of Long-Lived Assets by Geographical Areas [Table Text Block] Long-lived assets attributable to geographical areas This element may be used to disclose in its entirety the names of foreign countries in which material long-lived assets other than financial instruments are located, and amount of such long-lived assets located in that country or foreign geographic area. Related Party, Ownership Interest in General Partner, Percentage Sold Ownership interest in general partner of entity that was sold by a related party (as a percent) The percentage of ownership interest of related parties in the general partner of the entity that was sold during the period. Related Party Transaction, Purchase Price of Acquired Entity Total purchase price of ECI, which was purchased by PAA\Vulcan The total cost of the acquired entity that was purchased by a related party of the reporting entity. Related Party Transaction, Initial Cash Investment in Acquired Entity Initial cash investment in ECI The initial investment in the acquired entity by each of the contributing parties, which is the reporting entity and another related party. The settlement amount of litigation damages. Natural Resources Contamination Damages Settled Natural resources contamination - damages settled EPA Request for Information, Number of Truck Terminals Number of truck terminals for which an EPA request for information was received The number of truck terminals for which an Environmental Protection Agency request for information was received. Related Party Transaction, Environmental Indemnifications Cap Agreed upon environmental indemnifications cap The cap for environmental indemnifications for which the reporting entity is responsible per agreement with a related party. Agreed upon time period for the environmental indemnifications agreement cap (in years) Related Party Transaction, Environmental Indemnifications Cap, Time Period The agreed upon time period for the environmental indemnifications cap with a related party, as stated in years. Related Party Transaction, Environmental Remediation Costs, First Costs Amount Incurred by Related Party Amount of first costs of environmental remediation costs to be incurred by related party Amount of environmental costs that must be incurred by the partially owned subsidiary before environmental indemnification by the reporting entity will go into effect. Southern District of Texas Pipeline Releases [Member] Southern District of Texas Pipeline Releases Represents information pertaining to the crude oil releases that occurred in the Southern District of Texas. Number of Smaller Crude Oil Releases Number of smaller crude oil releases in relation to a litigation action The number of smaller crude oil releases experienced in sites owned by the entity in relation to a litigation or environmental action. Number of State Court Actions Consolidated into One Number of state court actions consolidated into one This element represents the number of state court actions consolidated into one in Bankruptcy Court. Rocky Mountain Pipelines System Llc [Member] Represents the information pertaining to Rocky Mountain Pipeline System (RMPS), which was acquired during the Pacific merger. Rocky Mountain Pipeline System LLC (RMPS) Change in Accounting Estimate of Depreciable Lives, Estimated Depreciation Expense Reduction Approximate reduction in depreciation expense due to depreciable life extensions The reduction in depreciation expense due to an increase in the accounting estimate of useful lives. Estimated reduction in basic and diluted earnings per unit due to change in accounting estimate of useful lives Change in Accounting Estimate of Depreciable Lives, Estimated Increase in Earnings Per Unit The estimated increase in basic and diluted earnings per share due to an increase in the accounting estimate of useful lives. The investment in White Cliffs Pipeline, LLC, a crude oil company, which is accounted for under the equity method of accounting. White Cliffs Pipeline Llc [Member] White Cliffs Pipeline, LLC Senior Notes Due in September 2015 at 3.95 Percent [Member] Represents 3.95 percent senior notes, which are due in September 2015. 3.95% senior notes due September 2015 This element represents information pertaining to PAA Natural Gas Storage, LP (PNG), a subsidiary of Plains All American Pipeline, LP and the successor of PAA Natural Gas Storage, LLC (PNGS). PNG PNG [Member] Represents the Series A subordinated units that have a lower priority of repayment in liquidation of the entity's assets. Series A Subordinated Units Series A Subordinated Units [Member] Series B Subordinated Units Represents the Series B subordinated units that have a lower priority of repayment in liquidation of the entity's assets. Series B Subordinated Units Series B Subordinated Units [Member] Represents the information pertaining to common units and Series A subordinated units. Common Unit and Series A Subordinated Unit [Member] Common and Series A Subordinated Unit Subtotal Modification of Holdings by Tranche [Axis] The division of modification of holdings by tranches. Modification of Holdings by Tranche [Domain] The division of modification of holdings by different tranches. Represents the information pertaining to the tranche one of the modification of holdings. Tranche One [Member] Tranche 1 Represents the information pertaining to the tranche two of the modification of holdings. Tranche Two [Member] Tranche 2 Represents the information pertaining to the tranche three of the modification of holdings. Tranche Three [Member] Tranche 3 Represents the information pertaining to the tranche four of the modification of holdings. Tranche Four [Member] Tranche 4 Represents the information pertaining to the tranche five of the modification of holdings. Tranche Five [Member] Tranche 5 Modification of Holdings, Units Modified This element represents modifications made in the series of units as per the amendment and restatement agreement. Modification (in units) Number of Potential Conversion Tranches before Amended and Restated Agreement The number of potential conversion tranches before the occurrence of an amended and restated agreement. Number of potential conversion tranches, before Second Amended and Restated Agreement Number of Potential Conversion Tranches after Amended and Restated Agreement The number of potential conversion tranches after the occurrence of an amended and restated agreement. Number of potential conversion tranches, after Second Amended and Restated Agreement Modification of Holdings Units Prior to Modification This element represents the number of units prior to modification in series of units. Prior to Modification (in units) Modification of Holdings Units, Post Modification This element represents the number of units after the modification in series of units. Post Modification (in units) Performance Thresholds [Abstract] Performance Thresholds Subordinated Units Distribution Available Threshold Annualized The threshold annualized distribution amount that must be available to units with a higher priority before distributions can be made to the subordinated units. Annualized distribution level (in dollars per unit) Minimum Working Gas Storage Capacity This element represents the minimum working gas storage capacity placed into service considered as performance threshold for conversion of subordinated units. Working gas storage capacity (in Bcf) Conversion of Subordinated Unit to Common Units Terms This element specifies the terms of conversion of subordinated units into common units. Conversion of subordinated units, terms Conversion of Subordinated Units, Number of Units to be Converted This element represents the number of series one subordinated units to be converted into another series on satisfaction of some operational and financial conditions. Series B subordinated units that will convert into Series A subordinated units Subordinated Unit Conversion Ratio The ratio applied to subordinated units for purposes of determining the number of other series of subordinated units that will be converted Conversion ratio Conversion of Subordinated Units Number of Consecutive Quarters of Distribution Sufficiency Required This element represents the number of consecutive quarters for which there is sufficient cash to pay quarterly distribution. Number of consecutive quarters of cash sufficiency Subordinated Units Distribution Received Threshold Quarterly The threshold quarterly distribution amount that must be received by units with a higher priority before distributions can be made to the subordinated units. Minimum cash quarterly distribution (in dollars per unit) Foreign Exchange Forward Contract at the Rate CAD 0.00 to USD 1.00 Maturing in 2014 [Member] Represents the foreign exchange forward contract at the rate of CAD 0.00 to USD 1.00, which is maturing in 2014. Foreign exchange forward contract at the rate CAD 0.00 to USD 1.00 maturing in 2014 Natural Gas Call Option [Member] Represents derivative instruments consisting of natural gas call options. Long natural gas swap position related to anticipated base gas purchases Acquisitions in 2010 [Member] Represents the information pertaining to acquisitions made in 2010. 2010 Acquisitions Nexen Acquisition [Member] Represents the information pertaining to Nexen Holdings U.S.A. Inc. Nexen Acquisition Lease Gathering Business [Member] Represents the information pertaining to lease gathering business acquired as part of the Nexen Acquisition. Lease gathering business Robinson Lake Pipeline [Member] Represents the information pertaining to Robinson Lake pipeline acquired as part of the Nexen Acquisition. Robinson Lake pipeline Other 2010 Acquisitions [Member] Represents the information pertaining to other acquisitions made in 2010. Other 2010 Acquisitions Business Acquisition Pipelines Capacity, Acquired Business capacity acquired (in barrels per day) The pipeline capacity of the system acquired in a business acquisition, expressed in barrels per day. Business Acquisition, Diameter of Pipelines, Acquired Diameter of pipeline acquired (in inches) This element represents the diameter of the pipeline acquired. Business Acquisition, Number of Truck Terminals, Acquired Number of truck terminals acquired This element represents the number of truck terminals acquired in business acquisition. Line of Credit Facility Tenure of Facility This element represents the tenure of the line of credit facility. Tenure of credit facility Price Risk Derivative Amount Used to Fund Hedge Inventory Represents the amount used to fund hedged inventory and would be reclassified as short-term debt if funded on credit facilities. Amount used to fund hedged inventory Standby Letter of Credit, Issuance Period, Upper Limit Issuance period for standby letters of credit, upper limit (in days) The upper limit of the issuance period for standby letters of credit, as stated in days. The number of court actions in Federal Court. Number of court actions in Federal Court in Texas Number of Court Actions in Federal Court Concentration Risk Percentage Not Met For an entity that discloses a concentration risk in relation to quantitative amount, which serves as the "benchmark" (or denominator) in the equation, this concept represents the concentration percentage not met by any individual customer, excluding major customers. Percentage of revenue not met or exceeded by other customers (as a percent) Other Assets Noncurrent Condensed Consolidating Financials Other assets, net Carrying amount, as of balance sheet date, of noncurrent assets not separately disclosed in the condensed consolidating balance sheet. Trucking Equipment and Other [Member] This element represents long lived, depreciable assets used for the primary purpose of moving people and products from one place to another and represents furniture and fixtures, computer hardware and other assets related to field property. Trucking equipment and other Long-term Obligations Excluded from Calculation of Maturities Long-term obligations and excluded from aggregate maturities. Other long-term obligations excluded from debt maturities Estimated Potential Cost of Environmental Remediation Estimated potential cost of environmental remediation The amount of potential cost of environmental remediation as related to a particular environmental action. This amount is only an approximation and may be higher or lower depending on the nature and extent of cleanup. Environmental Insurance Policy, Expiration Date Environmental insurance policy expiration year (in calendar year) Reflects when the insurance policy terminates, which may be presented in a variety of ways (year, month and year, day, month and year, quarter). Inventory Type [Domain] Types of inventories held by the entity in a schedule of inventories. Inventory, Volumes Linefill and Base Gas The volume of linefill and base gas inventory as of the balance sheet date. Linefill and base gas, Volumes (in barrels or cubic feet) Inventory, Volumes, Noncurrent The volume of noncurrent inventory as of the balance sheet date. Long-term inventory, Volumes (in barrels or cubic feet) Inventory, Weighted Average Price Per Unit, Current The weighted-average price per unit of current inventory. Inventory, Price/Unit of measure (in dollars per unit) Inventory, Weighted Average Price Per Unit Linefill and Base Gas The weighted-average price per unit of linefill and base gas inventory. Linefill and base gas, Price/Unit of measure (in dollars per unit) The weighted-average price per unit of noncurrent inventory. Inventory, Weighted Average Price Per Unit Noncurrent Long-term inventory, Price/Unit of measure (in dollars per unit) Inventory, Volumes Current Inventory, Volumes (in barrels or cubic feet) The volume of current inventory as of the balance sheet date. Goodwill Goodwill [Policy Text Block] Describes an entity's accounting policy for goodwill. This accounting policy also may address how an entity assesses and measures impairment of goodwill. Southern Pines Acquisition [Member] Represents the information pertaining to the acquisition of SG Resources Mississippi, LLC, whose primary asset is in Southern Pines natural gas storage facility. Southern Pines Acquisition Volume of Gas Storage Capacity The volume of aggregate working gas storage capacity of natural gas storage facilities owned and operated. Volume of aggregate working gas storage capacity of natural gas storage facilities (in Bcf) Business Acquisition Number of Pipelines Available The number of major natural gas pipelines with connections, either directly or indirectly, to the acquired facilities. Number of major natural gas pipelines Business Acquisition, Volume of Permitted Gas Storage Cavern Capacity The volume of permitted working capacity from the natural gas storage caverns acquired. Volume of permitted working capacity of natural gas storage caverns (in Bcf) Describes an entity's accounting policy for intangible assets. This accounting policy also may address how an entity assesses and measures impairment of intangible assets. Intangible Assets Intangible Assets [Policy Text Block] Business Acquisition Number of Permitted Natural Gas Storage Caverns Acquired The number of natural gas storage caverns acquired which were permitted at the date of the acquisition. Number of permitted natural gas storage caverns acquired Business Acquisition Number of Operational Natural Gas Storage Caverns Acquired The number of natural gas storage caverns acquired which were operational at the date of the acquisition. Number of operational natural gas storage caverns acquired Acquisitions in 2011 [Member] Represents the information pertaining to acquisitions made in 2011. 2011 Acquisitions Volume of Injection Capacity The volume of aggregate peak injection capacity of natural gas storage facilities per day. Volume of aggregate peak injection capacity of natural gas storage facilities per day (in Bcf) Business Acquisition, Fair Value Allocation, Base Gas The fair value related to a business combination allocated to base gas to be used in ongoing operations. Base gas Business Acquisition, Fair Value Allocation, Amortizable Intangible Assets The fair value related to a business combination allocated to an identifiable intangible asset that will be amortized. Intangible assets Business Acquisition Fair Value Allocation Noncurrent Liabilities, Long-term Debt The fair value related to a business combination allocated to the noncurrent portion of the long-term debt. Debt Acquisition Purchase Price Allocation, Noncurrent Assets The amount of acquisition cost of a business combination allocated to noncurrent assets. Purchase price allocation: Business and physical assets Business Acquisition, Purchase Price Allocation, Inventory and Other Working Capital The amount of acquisition cost of a business combination allocated to inventory and other working capital adjustments. Purchase price allocation: Inventory and other working capital adjustments Business Acquisition Inventory Volumes The volumes of inventory acquired in a business acquisition. Inventory (volumes in barrels) Number of Additional Businesses Acquired The number of additional businesses acquired by the entity during the period, which are not separately disclosed due to materiality. Number of additional acquisitions completed (in entities) Schedule of Business Acquisition Purchase Price [Text Block] Business acquisition purchase price consideration - PNGS Acquisition Disclosure of the purchase price in a business combination. Schedule of Business Acquisition Purchase Price Acquisition 2 [Text Block] Business acquisition purchase price consideration - Rainbow Acquisition Disclosure of the purchase price in a business combination with Rainbow. PAA Natural Gas Storage Acquisition [Member] This element represents information pertaining to the acquisition of the remaining interest in PAA/Vulcan Gas Storage, LLC, (subsequently PAA Natural Gas Storage, LLC (PNGS)). PNGS Acquisition Sale of Stock, Number of Shares Issued to Parent in Transaction The number of units issued to the parent by the subsidiary or equity method investee per stock transaction. Number of common units issued to Plains (in units) Subsidiary Proceeds from General Partner Contribution Contribution from general partner The subsidiary's cash inflow from a general partner contribution made by the parent entity during the period. Conversion of Subordinated Units, Number of Consecutive Quarters of Distribution Required This element represents the number of consecutive quarters for which a quarterly cash distribution is paid. Number of consecutive quarters of cash distribution Minority Interest Other This element represents movements included in the noncontrolling interest rollforward which are not separately disclosed or provided for elsewhere in the taxonomy. Other Share-based Compensation, Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options Issued, Number The number of outstanding awards on non-stock option plans for which the employer has issued equity instruments to an employee, including both employees who have and who have not yet satisfied service or performance criteria necessary to gain title to distributions to the shares. Units Outstanding (in units) Forward Starting Interest Rate Swap [Member] Represents forward starting interest rate swaps to hedge the underlying benchmark interest rate related to forecasted debt issuances. Forward starting interest rate swaps terminated in January 2011 Forward Starting Thirty Year Interest Rate Swap [Member] Represents forward starting 30-year interest rate swaps to hedge the underlying benchmark interest rate related to forecasted debt issuances. Forward starting swap (30-year) Forward Starting Ten Year Interest Rate Swap [Member] Represents forward starting 10-year interest rate swaps to hedge the underlying benchmark interest rate related to forecasted debt issuances. Forward starting swap (10-year) The number of terminated interest rate swaps. Number of interest rate swaps that terminated in 2011 (in contracts) Number of Terminated Interest Rate Swaps Derivative Instruments Cash Flow Hedge Gain (Loss) Recognized in Income, Net The portion of gains and losses (net) on derivative instruments designated and qualifying as hedging instruments representing (a) the effective portion of net gain or loss reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive income into income and (b) the amount of the hedge ineffectiveness. Derivatives in cash flow hedging relationships Acquisitions in 2005 [Member] Represents the information pertaining to acquisitions made in 2005. 2005 Acquisitions ECI Acquisition [Member] Represents the information pertaining to the acquisition of ECI, an indirect subsidiary of Sempra Energy. ECI Acquisition Percentage of Ownership in Entity Related Party The percentage of ownership in an entity by each of the owners, which include the reporting entity and another related party. Percentage of ownership of PAA/Vulcan Gash Storage LLC Related Party Transaction Net Contributions The amount of contributions made to a related party by each of the owners, which is the reporting entity and another related party. Net contributions made to PAA\Vulcan Sale of Stock Percent of Equity Issued in Transaction The percent of equity issued or sold by the subsidiary or equity method investee per stock transaction. Percent of equity represented by common units (as a percent) Purchase of Stock, Parent Percentage of Ownership in Subsidiary before Offering Percentage of subsidiary's stock owned by parent company before stock transaction. Ownership interest in PNGS prior to IPO (as a percent) Lynx Holdings ILLC [Member] This element represents information pertaining to Lynx Holdings I, LLC, a related party of Plains All American Pipeline, LP. Lynx Holdings I, LLC Related Party Ownership Percentage in General Partner Prior to Transaction The percentage of ownership by related parties in the general partner of the entity prior to a transaction during the period which affected the ownership percentage. Ownership interest in general partner of entity prior to transaction (as a percent) Related Party Ownership Percentage in General Partner The percentage of ownership by related parties in the general partner of the entity. Ownership interest in general partner of entity (as a percent) Occidental Petroleum Corporation [Member] This element represents information pertaining to Occidental Petroleum Corporation (Oxy), a related party of Plains All American Pipeline, LP. Oxy PNG Omnibus Agreement [Member] Represents information pertaining to an omnibus agreement between the reporting entity and its subsidiary PAA Natural Gas Storage, LLC (PNG), subsequent to PNG's IPO in May 2010. PNG Omnibus Agreement Purchase of Stock, Parent Percentage of Ownership in Subsidiary Contributed in Offering Equity interest in PNGS contributed to PNG (as a percent) Percentage of another subsidiary's stock contributed by parent company to the subsidiary or equity method investee undertaking the offering during stock transaction in exchange for units of stock and a general partner ownership percentage of the subsidiary or equity method investee. Sale of Stock Consideration Received on Transaction from Parent Cash from the parent entity received by subsidiary or equity investee for common stock issued or sold in the stock transaction. Proceeds received by PNG from Plains for sale of common units Schedule of Long-term Incentive Plan Awards, Outstanding and Expected to Vest [Table Text Block] Disclosure of the number of award units under the long-term incentive plan that validly exist and are outstanding as of the balance-sheet date. This disclosure stratifies the number of outstanding units by ranges of the company's vesting distribution amounts and by the estimated unit vesting date. Schedule of estimated vesting date for PAA long term incentive plan awards outstanding Schedule of Long-term Incentive Plan Awards, of Subsidiary Outstanding and Expected to Vest [Table Text Block] Disclosure of the number of award units under the long-term incentive plan of a subsidiary that validly exist and are outstanding as of the balance-sheet date. This disclosure stratifies the number of outstanding units by ranges of the company's vesting distribution amounts and by the estimated unit vesting date. Schedule of estimated vesting date for PNG long term incentive plan awards outstanding Length of acquisition period in quarters Line of Credit Facility Length of Acquisition Period Represents the number of quarters within the length of time considered an appropriate acquisition period for acquisitions greater than $50 million. This acquisition period relates to the Debt-to-EBITDA coverage ratio covenant terms for a line of credit facility. Senior Notes Due in February 2021 at 5.00 Percent [Member] Represents 5.00 percent senior notes, which are due in February 2021. 5.00% senior notes due February 2021 Co-issuer of Debt Ownership, Percentage The percentage of ownership of a finance subsidiary, which acts as a co-issuer of debt. Ownership in debt co-issuer (as a percent) Long-term Debt Maturities Other Long-term Obligations Excluded The amount of other long-term debt obligations, which are not included in the disclosure of long-term debt maturities. Amount excluded from long-term debt maturities related to other long-term obligations Fair Value Assets (Liabilities) Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation [Text Block] This element represents, for the fair value measurement of assets and liabilities using significant unobservable inputs (Level 3), a reconciliation of the beginning and ending balances, separately presenting changes during the period attributable to the following: (1) total gains or losses for the period (realized and unrealized), segregating those gains or losses included in earnings (or changes in net assets/liabilities), and a description of where those gains or losses included in earnings (or changes in net assets/liabilities) are reported in the statement of income (or activities); (2) purchases, sales, issuances, and settlements (net); and (3) transfers in and transfers out of Level 3 (for example, transfers due to changes in the observability of significant inputs). Reconciliation of changes in fair value of derivatives classified as level 3 Subordinated Units Distribution Received Threshold Annualized The threshold annualized distribution amount that must be received by units with a higher priority before distributions can be made to the subordinated units. Minimum distribution on annualized basis (in dollars per unit) Share-based Compensation, Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award Forfeited in Period The increase in the number of shares reserved for issuance under a share-based award plan other than a stock option plan due to shares that were settled during the reporting period due to a failure to satisfy certain conditions pertaining to the plan. Unit forfeitures (in units) Share-based Compensation, Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award Earned in Period The number of shares outstanding/issued under a share-based award plan which have become earned during the reporting period as certain performance conditions have been met giving the grantee the right to receive quarterly distributions. Units earned (in units) Represents the maximum debt-to-EBITDA coverage ratio during the acquisition period for the credit facility. Maximum Debt-to-EBITDA coverage ratio during an acquisition period Line of Credit Facility Debt to EBITDA Coverage Ratio During Acquisition Period Minority Interest Ownership Percentage Acquired by Noncontrolling Owners The equity interest acquired during the period by noncontrolling shareholders, partners or other equity holders in consolidated entity. Ownership percentage acquired by Holly Energy Partners LP (as a percent) PNG Long-term Incentive Plan Awards Including Transaction Grants [Member] Represents PNG's long-term incentive plans offered to employees, directors and consultants of the entity, including transaction grants which relate to phantom common units. PNG LTIP Awards Including Transaction Grants Payments for Purchase of Private Placement Units Purchase price of common unit private placement The cash outflow to acquire common units during private placement. Field Operating Segment [Member] Costs related to site and field operations during the period. Field Operating costs Share-based Compensation, Shares Authorized under Equity Compensation Plans Time for Vesting The length of time, in days, required for vesting, in some cases. Number of days required for vesting, in some cases Inventory [Axis] Amount of inventories held by the entity, by inventory type. PNG Senior Unsecured Credit Facility [Member] Represents the senior unsecured credit facility of PAA Natural Gas Storage, LLC (PNG), a subsidiary of the reporting entity. PNG senior unsecured revolving credit facility maturing in August 2016 Three Hundred Sixty Four Day Senior Unsecured Credit Facility [Member] Represents the 364-day senior unsecured credit facility that was scheduled to expire in January 2012 but was terminated August 2011. PAA senior unsecured 364-day revolving credit facility scheduled to mature in January 2012 Line of Credit Facility Renewal Date Reflects when the credit facility was renewed, which may be presented in a variety of ways (year, month and year, day, month and year, quarter). Renewal Date Line of Credit Facility Debt to EBITDA Coverage Ratio Represents the maximum debt-to-EBITDA coverage ratio for the credit facility. Maximum Debt-to-EBITDA coverage ratio Marathon Petroleum Corporation [Member] Represents the information pertaining to Marathon Petroleum Corporation. Marathon Petroleum Corporation Reduction in Incentive Distributions The reduction in the amount of incentive distribution paid to the general partner related to acquisitions made. Reduction in incentive distributions Reduction of Incentive Distribution Subsequent Distribution Per Limited Partner Unit Outstanding Subsequent cash distribution declared (in dollars per unit) Cash dividends declared or paid to each outstanding limited partnership unit of a publicly traded limited partnership or master limited partnership (MLP) after the end of an accounting period. Limited partners have limited liability and do not manage the partnership. Subsequent Distribution, Date of Distribution Subsequent cash distribution - date paid (in calendar date) Date of cash or stock or unit payment to all ownership interests of a publicly traded limited partnership or master limited partnership (MLP) after the end of an accounting period. All Ownership Interests, Subsequent Distribution Amount Subsequent cash distribution paid to all ownership interests Amount of cash or stock or unit payment to all ownership interests after the end of an accounting period. Number of common units issued at closing of the IPO pursuant to the full exercise of the underwriters's over-allotment option IPO, Sale of Stock, Number of Shares Issued at Closing The number of shares issued or sold by the subsidiary or equity method investee per stock transaction at closing of the IPO pursuant to the full exercise of the underwriters' over-allotment option. Conversion Natural Gas to Crude Barrels Divisor Represents the number to be divided into the amount in cubic feet of natural gas volumes in order to convert the volumes to barrels. Number used to divide into natural gas volumes to convert to barrels Interest Expense Contango Inventory Purchases Interest expense related to hedged inventory purchases The interest expense incurred related to hedged inventory purchases made during the period, which is included in segment profit. Line of Credit Facility EBITDA to Interest Coverage Ratio, Minimum Line Of Credit Facility EBITDA to Interest Coverage Ratio, Minimum Represents the minimum EBITDA-to-interest coverage ratio for the credit facility. Units forfeited Share-based Compensation, Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Grant Date Fair Value, Forfeited The grant date fair value of units granted and forfeited during the period. Related Party Transaction, Transition Services and Assistance Fee Fee received by general partner from related party for providing transition services and assistance The fee to be received by the entity's general partner from a related party for providing transition services and assistance from December 2010 to June 2011. Other Noncurrent Long-term Debt Long-term debt, other Carrying value as of the balance sheet date of other noncurrent debt not otherwise defined (with maturities initially due after one year or beyond the operating cycle if longer), excluding current portion. Related Party Ownership Interest in General Partner, Percentage Related party ownership of general partner interest (as a percent) The percentage of ownership interest of related parties in the general partner of the entity. Equity-based Compensation Expense, Incremental Due to Modifications Equity compensation expense Represents the additional incremental expense recognized during the period arising from the modification of share-based compensation arrangements with employees, directors and certain consultants qualifying for treatment as employees. General Partner Incentive Distribution, Subsequent Distribution Amount Subsequent cash distribution paid to General Partner - Incentive Amount of incentive distribution payment to a limited liability corporation managing member or limited partnership general partner after the end of the accounting period. Volume of Withdrawal Capacity The volume of aggregate peak withdrawal capacity of natural gas storage facilities per day. Volume of aggregate peak withdrawal capacity of natural gas storage facilities per day (in Bcf) Cash Flow Hedge Gain (Loss) to be Reclassified in Year Two and Three Gain expected to be reclassified to earnings prior to 2015 The estimated net amount of existing gains (losses) on cash flow hedges at the reporting date expected to be reclassified to earnings within year two and year three following the date of the latest balance sheet presented in the financial statements. Business Acquisition Fair Value Allocation Working Capital and Other Long-term Assets and Liabilities The fair value related to a business combination allocated to working capital and other long term-assets and liabilities. Working capital and other long-term assets and liabilities Anticipated Base Gas Purchases [Member] Represents the details pertaining to anticipated base gas purchases. Long natural gas call options related to anticipated base gas purchases Proceeds from (Payments for) Other Financing Activities, CCFI Other financing activities For the Condensed Consolidating Financial Information disclosures, this element represents that net cash inflow (outflow) from other financing activities. This element is used when there is not a more specific and appropriate element in the taxonomy. Line of Credit Facility, Commitment Fee Percentage, Minimum The fee, expressed as a minimum percentage of the line of credit facility, for the line of credit facility regardless of whether the facility has been used. Minimum percentage of commitment fees payable Line of Credit Facility, Commitment Fee Percentage, Maximum The fee, expressed as a maximum percentage of the line of credit facility, for the line of credit facility regardless of whether the facility has been used. Maximum percentage of commitment fees payable General Partner Ownership Interest, Subsequent Distribution Amount Subsequent cash distribution paid to General Partner - 2% ownership interest Amount of cash or stock or unit payment to a limited liability corporation managing member or limited partnership general partner for ownership interest after the end of the accounting period; this amount excludes all incentive distributions paid to general partner. Related Party Transaction, Annual Administrative Services Fee Effective Start Date Month, date and year of the effective start date of the administrative services agreement annual fee. Effective Start Date of Administrative Services Agreement Annual Fee Related Party Transaction, Annual Administrative Services Fee Effective Termination Date Month, date and year of the effective termination date of the administrative services agreement annual fee. Effective Termination Date of Administrative Services Agreement Annual Fee Components of inventory, linefill, base gas and long-term inventory Schedule of Inventory [Table Text Block] Tabular disclosure of the carrying amount as of the balance sheet date of inventory, linefill, bas gas and long-term inventory. This may include, but is not limited to, the volumes, unit of measure, total value, and price per unit of each of the major classes of inventory. Net Short Swap Position Consisting of NYMEX and ICE Swaps [Member] Short swap position consisting of NYMEX and ICE swaps related to anticipated sales of natural gas. Short natural gas swap position related to anticipated natural gas sales Net Long Swap Position Consisting of NYMEX and ICE Swaps [Member] Long swap position consisting of NYMEX and ICE swaps related to anticipated purchases of natural gas. Long natural gas swap position related to anticipated natural gas purchases Business Acquisition, Purchase Price Allocation, Base Gas The amount of acquisition cost of a business combination allocated to base gas. Base Gas Business Acquisition, Purchase Price Allocation, Other Working Capital, Net of Cash Acquired The amount of acquisition cost of a business combination allocated to working capital net of cash acquired. Other working capital Interest Rate Contract and Commodity Contract [Member] Derivative instruments whose primary underlying risk is tied to 1) the right to receive or pay a sum of money at a given interest rate; and 2) commodity prices. Interest rate and commodity derivatives Fair Value Measurement with Unobservable Inputs, Reconciliation, Recurring Basis Asset (Liabilities) Settlements Settlements that have taken place during the period in relation to assets and liabilities measured at fair value and categorized within Level 3 of the fair value hierarchy. Settlements Fair Value Measurement with Unobservable Inputs, Reconciliation, Recurring Basis Assets (Liabilities) Derivative Entered Into Derivatives entered place during the period in relation to assets and liabilities measured at fair value and categorized within Level 3 of the fair value hierarchy. Derivatives entered into during the period Represents the derivative instruments in average spread position for crude oil and gas futures and swaps. Average Crude Oil and Gas Spread Positions [Member] Average butane/WTI spread positions Period of Purchase of Hurricane Limit Number of years over which hurricane limit insurance was purchased Represents number of years over which hurricane limit insurance was purchased which covers property and business interruption. Hurricane Insurance Coverage Hurricane property and business interruption insurance limit Limit of insurance coverage for property and business interruption losses associated with hurricane damage. Provision for penalty paid as a result of decree that was approved by the court. Loss Contingency Provision for Penalty Paid Provision for penalty paid Loss Contingency Commitment for Environment Project Commitment to environmental project Represents the commitment to an environmental project. Net Cash (Paid) Received for Terminated Interest Rate and Foreign Currency Hedging Instruments Net cash received/(paid) for terminated interest rate or foreign currency hedging instruments The net cash received (paid) for terminated interest rate and foreign currency hedging instruments. Net cash received for sales and purchases of linefill and base gas Proceeds from (Payments to Acquire) Linefill in Assets Owned The net cash received (paid) to purchase linefill in pipelines owned by the entity. Net cash received/(paid) for sales of linefill and base gas Business Acquisition, Purchase Price Escrowed, Percentage Percentage of remaining purchase price Represents the remaining percentage of purchase price that was escrowed. Business Acquisition, Purchase Price Adjustment, Amount Received Adjustment amount received Represents the purchase price adjustment amount received. Gulf Opportunity Zone Bonds Maturing in 2032 [Member] Represents Mississippi Business Finance Corporation Gulf Opportunity Zone Bonds which are maturing in 2032. Go Zone Bonds Maturing in 2032 Gulf Opportunity Zone Bonds Maturing in 2035 [Member] Represents Mississippi Business Finance Corporation Gulf Opportunity Zone Bonds which are maturing in 2035. Go Zone Bonds Maturing in 2035 Units purchased (in units) This element represents units purchased during the subsidiary equity issuance. Subsidiary Equity Issuance, Units Purchased Increase in Parent's capital balance from issuance of additional shares to noncontrolling interest holders. Increase to partners' capital Partners Capital Increase from Subsidiary Stock Issuance Rainbow pipeline crude oil release Rainbow Pipeline Crude Oil Release Represents preliminary estimate of total costs related to a pipeline release. This estimate may be revised upward or downward as information is refined and additional information becomes available. Foreign Exchange Forward Contract at the Rate CAD 0 to USD 1.00 Maturing in 2011 [Member] Represents the foreign exchange forward contracts at the rate of CAD 0 to USD 1.00, which is maturing in 2011. Foreign exchange forward contract at the rate CAD 0 to USD 1.00 maturing in 2011 Foreign Exchange Forward Contract at the Rate CAD 0 to USD 1.00 Maturing in 2012 [Member] Represents the foreign exchange forward contracts at the rate of CAD 0 to USD 1.00, which is maturing in 2012. Foreign exchange forward contract at the rate CAD 0 to USD 1.00 maturing in 2012 Foreign Exchange Forward Contract at the Rate CAD 0 to USD 1.00 Maturing in 2013 [Member] Represents the foreign exchange forward contracts at the rate of CAD 0 to USD 1.00, which is maturing in 2013. Foreign exchange forward contract at the rate CAD 0 to USD 1.00 maturing in 2013 Business Acquisition, Purchase Price Allocation Tax Abatement Included in Amortizable Intangible Assets Tax abatement included in amortizable intangible assets Represents the amount of acquisition cost of a business combination allocated to a tax abatement included in amortizable intangible assets. Business Acquisition, Purchase Price Allocation Contract Included in Amortizable Intangible Assets Contracts value included in amortizable intangible assets Represents the amount of acquisition cost of a business combination allocated to a contract value included in amortizable intangible assets. Future Amortization Expense First Full Fiscal Year Future amortization expense first full fiscal year The amount of amortization expense expected to be recognized during the first full fiscal year following the date of the most recent balance sheet. Future Amortization Expense Second Full Fiscal Year Future amortization expense second full fiscal year The amount of amortization expense expected to be recognized during the second full fiscal year following the date of the most recent balance sheet. Future Amortization Expense Third Full Fiscal Year Future amortization expense third full fiscal year The amount of amortization expense expected to be recognized during the third full fiscal year following the date of the most recent balance sheet. Future Amortization Expense Fourth Full Fiscal Year Future amortization expense fourth full fiscal year The amount of amortization expense expected to be recognized during the fourth full fiscal year following the date of the most recent balance sheet. Rainbow Pipeline [Member] Represents the Rainbow pipeline located in Alberta, Canada. Rainbow pipeline Estimated Volume of Crude Oil Released Estimated volume of crude oil released (in barrels) Represents the current estimated volume of crude oil released. Volume of Crude Oil Recovered by Clean up Operations Volume of crude oil recovered by clean-up operations (in barrels) Represents the volume of estimated crude oil recovered by clean-up operations. Environmental Loss Contingency Estimate of Total Costs Including Lost Revenue Rainbow Pipeline total release costs, including lost revenue Represents the initial estimated total costs, including the lost revenue associated with the release, and excluding insurance recoveries, fines and penalties. Due from to Related Parties [Table Text Block] Tabular disclosure of receivables to be collected from and obligations owed to related parties, as of the balance sheet date. Receivable and payable amounts with related parties Tabular disclosure of the reconciliation of total profit or loss from reportable segments, to the entity's net income attributable to the parent. Reconciliation of segment profit to net income attributable to Plains Reconciliation of Operating Profit (Loss) from Segments to Net Income Attributable to Parent [Table Text Block] Schedule of Impact of Changes in Entity Ownership Interest in Subsidiary [Table Text Block] Tabular disclosure pertaining to the impact of the changes in ownership interest in subsidiary on the entity's capital. Schedule of impact of changes in the entity ownership interest in subsidiary on the entity's capital Environmental Loss Contingency Estimate of Total Costs Excluding Lost Revenue Rainbow Pipeline total release costs, excluding lost revenue Represents the subsequent revised total costs associated with the release (excluding lost revenue) based on costs incurred, as well as additional information concerning requirements for environmental restoration and remediation. Transfer of Subsidiary Stock to Noncontrolling Interests in Settlement of Equity Compensation Awards Represents the transfer of common units of subsidiary entity to noncontrolling interests in connection with the settlement of equity compensation awards. Number of common units transfer to noncontrolling interests in connection with the settlement of equity compensation awards (in shares) Maximum Aggregate Common Stock Offer Price Maximum aggregate offer price of common stock Represents the maximum aggregate offering price to issue and sell common units through an "at-the-market" continuous offering process. Other Acquisitions in 2011 [Member] Represents the information pertaining to additional acquisitions made in 2011. Other 2011 Acquisitions Revenues and Purchases Related Parties [Table Text Block] Tabular disclosure of revenues and purchases resulting from transactions with related parties during the period. Revenues and purchases related to transactions with related parties Increase in capital from transfer of PNG units in connection with the settlement of equity compensation awards Represents the increase in capital from the transfer of subsidiary units in connection with the settlement of equity compensation awards. Consolidation, Less than Wholly Owned Subsidiary, Parent Ownership Interest, Changes, Transfer of Interest by Parent Natural Resources Contamination Damages Allocated and Paid Natural resources contamination - allocated and paid Represents the amount of litigation damages allocated and paid by the reporting entity. Schedule of Changes in Minority Interest in Partners Capital [Table Text Block] Schedule of changes in noncontrolling interests in partners' capital Tabular disclosure pertaining to the changes in the noncontrolling interests in partners' capital during the period. Length of Pipeline Isolated and Depressurized Length of Pipeline Isolated and Depressurized (in miles) Represents the Length of pipeline isolated and depressurized to conduct clean-up operations. Amount of premiums plus deductibles as percentage of coverage limit. Premiums and deductibles as a percentage of coverage limit Premium and Deductible as Percentage of Coverage Limit Net borrowings/(repayments) on PAA's revolving credit facility The net cash inflow (outflow) due to proceeds from additional borrowings and repayments on our 364 day revolving credit facility. Net Proceeds from Repayments of 364 Day Revolving Credit Facility Restatement to Prior Year Cash Flows [Table Text Block] Schedule of Revision of Prior Period Consolidated Statement of Cash Flows Tabular disclosure of the effects of restatement on cash flows of prior periods. Business Acquisition Capital Expenditures and Other Costs Subject to Reimbursement Capital expenditure and other costs incurred subject to reimbursement Represents the capital expenditure and costs incurred which are subject to reimbursement from the acquired entity. Area of Site Affected Due to Crude Oil Release Area of land affected due to crude oil release (in acres) Represents the area of land affected due to release of crude oil. Total Estimated Cost to Clean-up and Remediate Site, before Insurance Recoveries Total estimated cost to clean-up and remediate the site, before insurance recoveries Represents the estimated total cost to clean-up and remediate the site, before insurance recoveries. Net Short Spread Position of Calendar of Call Option Related to Anticipated Sales of Natural Gas [Member] Represents the derivative instruments in a net short spread position of calendar spread call options related to anticipated sales of natural gas. Net short calendar spread call options positions anticipated sales of natural gas New Accounting Pronouncement or Change in Accounting Principle Number of Separate Statements Number of separate statements in which the entity is required to present comprehensive income Represents the number of statements presented by the entity to reflect the net income, total net income, components of other comprehensive income and total of other comprehensive income. The net cash inflow or outflow in aggregate debt due to repayments and proceeds from additional borrowings to an entity that is related to it but not strictly controlled (for example, an unconsolidated subsidiary, affiliate, and joint venture or equity method investment). Proceeds from Repayments of Intercompany Debt Net borrowings/(repayments) on intercompany notes Supplemental Condensed Consolidating Financial Information Disclosure [Text Block] This element represents supplemental condensed consolidating financial information disclosure text block. Supplemental Condensed Consolidating Financial Information Acquisitions and Dispositions Partners' Capital and Distributions. Related Party Transactions. Schedule of Debt Instruments [Table] A table or schedule providing information pertaining to short-term and long-term debt instruments or arrangements, including identification, terms, features, collateral requirements and other information necessary to a fair presentation. Linefill and Base Gas Volumetric Ratio of Mcf of Natural Gas to Btu Minimum Denominator Denominator for ratio of Mcf of natural gas to crude Btu Represents the denominator for the minimum ratio of Mcf of natural gas to crude Btu. Linefill and Base Gas Volumetric Ratio of Mcf of Natural Gas to Btu Minimum Numerator Numerator for ratio of Mcf of natural gas to crude Btu Represents the numerator for the minimum ratio of Mcf of natural gas to crude Btu. Debt Instrument, Coverage Ratio Debt to EBITDA Maximum, Numerator Numerator for ratio of debt-to-EBITDA, maximum Represents the numerator for the maximum ratio of debt to EBITDA (earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation and amortization) required to be maintained under credit facility. Debt Instrument, Coverage Ratio Debt to EBITDA Maximum, Denominator Denominator for ratio of debt-to-EBITDA, maximum Represents the denominator for the maximum ratio of debt to EBITDA (earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation and amortization) required to be maintained under credit facility. Debt Instrument, Covenant Ratio EBITDA to Interest Maximum, Denominator Denominator for ratio of EBITDA-to-interest, maximum Represents the denominator for the maximum ratio of EBITDA (earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation and amortization) to interest expense ratio required to be maintained under financial covenants. Prior Paa Senior Unsecured Revolving Credit Facility Maturing in 2012 [Member] Represents senior unsecured revolving credit facility which was scheduled to mature in July 2012 but was terminated in August 2011. PAA senior unsecured revolving credit facility scheduled to mature in July 2012 Represents senior secured hedged inventory facility which was schedule to mature in October 2011 but was terminated in August 2011. Prior Senior Secured Hedged Inventory Debt Facility Maturing in 2011 [Member] Senior secured hedged inventory debt facility scheduled to mature in October 2011 Prior Png Senior Unsecured Revolving Credit Facility Mature 2013 [Member] Represents PNG senior unsecured revolving credit facility which will was scheduled to mature in 2013 but was terminated in August 2011. PNG senior unsecured revolving credit facility scheduled to mature in May 2013 Debt Instrument Coverage Ratio EBITDA to Interest Minimum, Numerator Numerator for coverage ratio of EBITDA-to-interest, minimum Represents the numerator for the minimum ratio of EBITDA (earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation and amortization) to Interest required to be maintained under financial covenants. Debt Instrument Coverage Ratio EBITDA to Interest Minimum, Denominator Denominator for coverage ratio of EBITDA-to-interest, minimum Represents the numerator for the maximum ratio of EBITDA (earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation and amortization) to Interest required to be maintained under financial covenants. The axis of a table defines the relationship between the domain members or categories in the table and the line items or concepts that complete the table of the entity. Sale of Stock [Axis] Market Continuous Offering Program [Member] Represents equity distribution agreement pursuant to which issue and sell common units through sales agent. At-the-Market Continuous Offering Program Percentage of Commission Paid under Equity Distribution Agreement Maximum (as a percent) Represents percentage of commission paid under the equity distribution agreement based on gross sales price per common unit sold. Percentage of Commission Paid under Equity Distribution Agreement, Maximum Commissions paid Commission Paid to Sales Agent Represents commissions paid to agent under the equity distribution agreement. Debt Instrument Coverage Ratio Debt to EBITDA Acquisition Period Maximum, Numerator Numerator for ratio of debt-to-EBITDA during acquisition period, maximum Represents the numerator for the maximum ratio of debt to EBITDA (earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation and amortization) required to be maintained during acquisition period under credit facility. Debt Instrument Coverage Ratio Debt to EBITDA Acquisition Period Maximum, Denominator Denominator for ratio of debt-to-EBITDA during acquisition period, maximum Represents the denominator for the maximum ratio of debt to EBITDA (earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation and amortization) required to be maintained during acquisition period under credit facility. Debt Instrument Covenant Ratio EBITDA to Interest Acquisition Period Maximum, Numerator Numerator for ratio of EBITDA-to-interest during acquisition period, maximum Represents the numerator for the maximum ratio of EBITDA (earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation and amortization) to interest expense ratio required to be maintained during acquisition period under financial covenants. Debt Instrument, Covenant Ratio EBITDA to Interest Acquisition Period Maximum, Denominator Denominator for ratio of EBITDA-to-interest during acquisition period, maximum Represents the denominator for the maximum ratio of EBITDA (earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation and amortization) to interest expense ratio required to be maintained during acquisition period under financial covenants. PNG Senior Unsecured Revolving Credit Facility [Member] Represents the senior unsecured revolving credit facility of PAA Natural Gas Storage, LLC (PNG), a subsidiary of the reporting entity, which is provided for under the PNG senior unsecured credit facility. PNG senior unsecured credit facility PNG units owned by PAA (in units) This element represents the number of units of the subsidiary owned by the parent. Subsidiary Units Owned Derivative hedges to manage the risk of not utilizing storage capacity (in barrels) Aggregate notional volume of commodity price risk derivatives to hedge the risk of not utilizing storage capacity. Nonmonetary Notional Amount of Price Risk Derivatives Hedged to Manage the Risk of Not Utilizing Number of Interest Rate Swaps Terminate in June 2014 The number of interest rate swaps that terminate in June 2014. Number of interest rate swaps that terminate in June 2014 (in contracts) Mississippi Business Finance Corporation Gulf Opportunity Zone Industrial Development Revenue Bonds Series 2009 [Member] Represents the information pertaining to the obligor of Mississippi Business Finance Corporation gulf Opportunity zone industrial development revenue bonds Series 2009 connection with Southern Pines Acquisition. SG Resources Mississippi, LLC Project, Series 2009 Mississippi Business Finance Corporation Gulf Opportunity Zone Industrial Development Revenue Bonds Series 2010 [Member] Represents the information pertaining to the obligor of Mississippi Business Finance Corporation gulf opportunity zone industrial development revenue bonds series 2010 connection with Southern Pines Acquisition. SG Resources Mississippi, LLC Project, Series 2010 PNG Gulf Opportunity Term Loan Weighted Average Interest Rate 1.6 Percent [Member] Represents the 1.6 percent PNG gulf opportunity term loan of PAA Natural Gas Storage, LLC (PNG), a subsidiary of the reporting entity, which is provided for under the PNG senior unsecured credit facility. 1.6% PNG Gulf Opportunity term loan PNG Gulf Opportunity Term Loan Weighted Average Interest Rate 1.4 Percent [Member] Represents the 1.4 Percent PNG gulf opportunity term loan of PAA Natural Gas Storage, LLC (PNG), a subsidiary of the reporting entity, which is provided for under the PNG senior unsecured credit facility. 1.4% PNG Gulf Opportunity term loan Number of Term Bonds Purchase Tax-exempt term bonds, number Represents number of tax-exempt term bonds owned by PNG. GO Bonds 2009 [Member] Represents GO Bonds 2009 tax-exempt term bonds. 2009 GO Bonds GO Bonds 2010 [Member] Represents GO Bonds 2010 tax-exempt term bonds. 2010 GO Bonds Debt Instrument Variable Rate Base [Axis] The alternative reference rates that may be used to calculate the variable interest rate of the debt instrument. Debt Instrument Variable Rate Base [Domain] Identification of the reference rate that is used to calculate the variable interest rate of the debt instrument. Debt Instrument, Variable Rate Base Eurodollar Rate [Member] The Eurodollar rate used to calculate the variable interest rate of the debt instrument. Eurodollar Rate Six Forward Starting Thirty Year Interest Rate Swap [Member] Represents six forward starting 30-year interest rate swaps to hedge the underlying benchmark interest rate related to forecasted debt issuances. 6 forward starting swaps (30-year) Four Forward Starting Ten Year Interest Rate Swap [Member] Represents four forward starting 10-year interest rate swaps to hedge the underlying benchmark interest rate related to forecasted debt issuances. 4 forward starting swaps (10-year) Two Forward Starting Thirty Year Interest Rate Swap [Member] Represents two forward starting 30-year interest rate swaps to hedge the underlying benchmark interest rate related to forecasted debt issuances. 2 forward starting swaps (30-year) Ten Forward Starting Thirty Year Interest Rate Swap [Member] Represents ten forward starting 30-year interest rate swaps to hedge the underlying benchmark interest rate related to forecasted debt issuances. 10 forward starting swaps (30-year) Crude Oil Basis LLS and WTI Swaps Differential Hedges [Member] Represents the derivative instruments consisting of LLS/WTI crude oil basis swaps, which hedge anticipated sales of crude oil. LLS/WTI crude oil basis swaps PNGGO Zone Term Loans [Member] Represents the GO Zone term loan of PAA Natural Gas Storage, LLC (PNG), a subsidiary of the reporting entity, which is provided for under the PNG senior unsecured credit facility. PNG GO Zone term loans Bay Area Air Quality Management District [Member] Represents the information pertaining to Bay Area Air Quality Management District. Bay Area Air Quality Management District Notices for Alleged Violations Estimated Potential Cost of Environmental Remediation Allocated PAA's share of estimated potential cost of environmental remediation PAA's share of estimated potential cost of environmental remediation as relates to a particular environmental action. This amount is only an approximation and may be higher or lower depending on the nature and extent of the cleanup. Net repayments on PNG's credit agreements Net Proceeds from Repayments of Subsidiary Credit Facilities The net cash inflow (outflow) due to proceeds from additional borrowings and repayments on credit facilities of a consolidated subsidiary of the entity. PNG senior unsecured credit agreement PNG Senior Unsecured Credit Agreement [Member] Represents the senior unsecured credit facility of PAA Natural Gas Storage, LLC (PNG), a subsidiary of the reporting entity. Gain (loss) on discontinued cash flow hedge reclassified to earnings during the year The amount of gain reclassified into other expense in the period when cash flow hedge is discontinued because it is probable that the original forecasted transactions will not occur by the end of the original period or an additional two month time period. Gain on Discontinuation of Cash Flow Hedge Due to Forecasted Transaction Probable of Not Occurring Reclassified to Other Expense Gain (loss) on discontinued cash flow hedge reclassified to Facilities segment revenues during the year The amount of gain reclassified into Facilities segment revenues in the period when cash flow hedge is discontinued because it is probable that the original forecasted transactions will not occur by the end of the original period or an additional two month time period. Gain on Discontinuation of Cash Flow Hedge Due to Forecasted Transaction Probable of Not Occurring Reclassified to Facilities Segment Revenue Total distributions paid during the period The total cash distributions paid during the period. Total Distribution Paid During Period Ratio for Conversion of Natural Gas Volume to Barrels Ratio for conversion of natural gas volumes to barrels This element represents the ratio for conversion of natural gas volumes to barrels. Business Acquisition Fair Value Assets, Liabilities Allocation [Abstract] Business acquisition, allocation of fair value of assets and liabilities Business Acquisition Fair Value Allocation Property Plant and Equipment The fair value related to a business combination allocated to property, plant and equipment to be used in ongoing operations. Property, plant and equipment Business Acquisition Fair Value Allocation Assets Liabilities Net The total fair value of the acquired entity. Total assets and liabilities Reduction in Future Incentive Distributions in Next Twelve Months Reduction in incentive distributions in 2011 The reduction in the amount of incentive distribution to be made within the twelve months following the date of the latest balance sheet presented in the financial statements to the general partner related to acquisitions made. Income (Loss) from Continuing Operations before Income Taxes and Minority Interest Income before tax Sum of operating profit and nonoperating income (expense) before income taxes, extraordinary items, cumulative effects of changes in accounting principles, and noncontrolling interest. Includes income (loss) from equity method investments. Inventory Table Disclosure [Table Text Block] Components of inventory, linefill, base gas and long-term inventory This element represents the tabular disclosure related to inventory. This may include, but is not limited to, the volumes, unit of measure, total value, and price per unit of each of the major classes of inventory. Revenues Net [Member] Revenues Aggregate revenues net during the period in the normal course of business. Threshold for Disclosure Percentage Percentage required for qualification as major customer (as a percent) Threshold percentage which the entity uses for disclosure. Maximum Size of Largest Owerner Interest Maximum interest held by principal owners (as a percent) The maximum percentage of owner interest. Purchased and Other Intangibles Assets Represents purchased and other intangibles assets from prior acquisitions which have been fully amortized and removed from the balance sheet. Purchased and other intangibles assets prior acquisitions Schedule of Valuation and Qualifying Accounts [Table Text Block] Schedule of allowance for doubtful accounts balance and activity Represents the entire disclosure for doubtful accounts allowance and reserve accounts (their beginning and ending balances, as well as a reconciliation by type of activity during the period). Consolidation Less than Wholly Owned Subsidiary Parent Ownership Interest Effects of Modification Net [Table Text Block] Schedule of changes made to holdings in limited partner units of PNG result of modification If the parent's ownership interest in a subsidiary changes during the period, this element may be used for the complete disclosure requirement to present a separate schedule showing the effects of any changes in a parent's ownership interest in a subsidiary on the equity attributable to the parent. Plains Eagle Ford Pipeline LLC [Member] Plains Eagle Ford Pipeline LLC The investment in Plains Eagle Ford Pipeline LLC, a crude oil company, which is accounted for under the equity method of accounting. Consolidation Less than Wholly Owned Subsidiary Parent Ownership Interest (Decrease) Sale of Interest by Parent Decrease in capital from sale of interest in SLC Pipeline Represents a sale by the parent of a portion of its equity interest in a subsidiary during the period, thereby decrease in total (consolidated) equity attributable to the parent. Inventory, Linefill, Base Gas and Long-term Inventory Inventory Linefill and Base Gas and Long Term Inventory Disclosure [Text Block] The complete disclosure related to inventory, linefill and base gas and long-term inventory. This may include, but is not limited to, the basis of stating inventory, linefill, and base gas and long-term inventory, the method of determining inventory, linefill and base gas and long-term inventory cost, the major classes of inventory, linefill and base gas and long-term inventory, and the nature of the cost elements included in inventory, linefill and base gas and long-term inventory. If inventory, linefill and base gas and long-term inventory is stated above cost, accrued net losses on firm purchase commitments for inventory, linefill and base gas and long-term inventory and losses resulting from valuing inventory, linefill and base gas and long-term inventory at the lower-of-cost-or-market may also be included. The portion of the total purchase price of a business acquisition that was paid at closing. Business Acquisition Purchase Price Portion Paid at Closing Purchase price: Paid at closing Schedule of Operational and Financial Conditions Necessary for Conversion of Subordinated Units [Table Text Block] Operational and financial conditions necessary for conversion of Series B subordinated units to Series A subordinated units Tabular disclosure of operational and financial performance thresholds for conversion of series B subordinated units to series A subordinated units. Represents the period of time following an acquisition used to measure debt-to-EBITDA coverage ratio. Acquisition Period Acquisition period Acquisition Measurement Period Threshold Threshold for acquisition period qualification Represents the minimum acquisition amount for the debt-to-EBITDA coverage ratio to change. Portion of Series B subordinated units for which performance thresholds modified Represents the portion of units for which performance thresholds were altered by an amended and restated agreement. Portion of Units for which Performance Thresholds Modified Cash Flow Hedge Gain (Loss) to be Reclassified Remaining Portion Gain (loss) expected to be reclassified to earnings through 2045 The estimated net amount of existing gains or losses on cash flow hedges at the reporting date expected to be reclassified to earnings through 2045. PNG annualized distribution probable of occurring Annualized distribution probable of occurring for which a portion of the liability for awards based on performance levels is accrued. Annualized Distribution Probable of Occurring Future non-cancelable commitments relating to operating and capital leases Tabular disclosure of future minimum capital and operating lease payments as of the date of the latest balance sheet presented, in aggregate and for each of the five years succeeding fiscal years, with separate deductions from the total for the amount representing executor costs, including any profit thereon, included in the minimum lease payments and for the amount of the imputed interest necessary to reduce the net minimum lease payments to present value. Schedule of Future Minimum Lease Payments for Capital and Operating Leases [Table Text Block] Business Acquisition Contingent Consideration Cash Paid after Milestone Achieved Amount of cash paid for contingent consideration arrangements based on performance milestones achieved. Contingent consideration: Cash paid Remaining contingent consideration fair value Fair value, as of the balance sheet date, of the remaining contingent consideration under the arrangement. Business Acquisition Contingent Consideration Fair Value at Balance Sheet Date Number of Interest Rate Swaps Terminate in August 2014 The number of interest rate swaps that terminate in August 2014. Number of interest rate swaps that terminate in August 2014 (in contracts) Gross margin Total revenues less purchases and related costs, field operating costs and depreciation and amortization. Gross Margin The total fair value of other consolidated equity compensation equity-based awards for which the grantee gained the right during the reporting period, by satisfying service and performance requirements, to receive or retain shares or units, other instruments, or cash in accordance with the terms of the arrangement. Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award Equity Instruments Other Consolidated Equity Compensation Vested in Period Total Fair Value Unit vestings which were settled with PNG units BP NGL Acquisition [Member] BP NGL Acquisition Represents the information pertaining to the acquisition of BP Canada Energy Company. Business Acquisition, Interest Percentage Paid at Closing Interest paid at closing (as a percent) Represents the interest paid at closing date of acquisition expressed as a percentage of balance amounts of total consideration. Business Acquisition Contractual Rights Related to NGL Pipelines Acquired Contractual rights related to NGL pipelines acquired (in miles) Represents the contractual rights related to the NGL pipelines acquired in business combination, expressed in miles of pipeline. Business Acquisition NGL Storage Capacity Acquired NGL storage capacity acquired (in barrels) Represents the NGL storage capacity acquired in business combination, expressed in barrels. Business Acquisition Number of Fractionation Plants Acquired Number of fractionation plants acquired Represents the number of fractionation plants acquired in a business combination. Business Acquisition Aggregate Capacity of Fractionation Plants Acquired Aggregate net capacity of fractionation plants acquired (in barrels per day) Represents the aggregate capacity of fractionation plants acquired in a business combination, expressed in barrels per day. Business Acquisition Number of Field Gas Processing Plants Acquired Number of field gas processing plants acquired Represents the number of field gas processing plants acquired in a business combination. Business Acquisition Aggregate Capacity of Field Gas Processing Plants Acquired Aggregate capacity of field gas processing plants acquired (in Bcf per day) Represents the aggregate capacity of field gas processing plants acquired in a business combination, expressed in Bcf per day. Business Acquisition Long-term and Seasonal Inventories Acquired Long-term and seasonal NGL inventories acquired (in barrels) Represents the long-term and seasonal NGL inventories acquired in a business combination, expressed in barrels. Business Acquisition Number of Rail Cars under Long-term Leases Acquired Number of rail cars under long-term leases acquired Represents the number of rail cars under the long-term leases acquired in a business combination. Business Acquisition NGL Supply NGL supply (in barrels per day) Represents the supply of NGL which is transported through a fully integrated network to fractionation facilities and markets in Western and Eastern Canada and in the U.S, expressed in barrels per day. Line of Credit Facility Period for Activation of Facility Period for activation of credit facility (in months) Represents the period for activation of credit facility. Western Refining Acquisition [Member] Western Acquisition Represents the information pertaining to the acquisition of Western Refining. Gardendale Gathering System Acquisition [Member] Gardendale Gathering System Acquisition Represents the information pertaining to the acquisition of Gardendale Gathering System. Business Acquisition Number of Transactions Completed Number of transactions completed Represents the number of transactions completed during the period. Loss Contingency Penalty Paid Represents penalty paid as a result of settlement agreement. Penalty paid Distinct Tranches Number Number of distinct tranches Represents distinct tranches number. Tranches Number Received Increase Annual Distribution Number of tranches increases annual distribution Represents the number of tranches for which the annual distribution threshold was increased. Incremental reduction in depreciation expense due to depreciable life extensions Change in Accounting Estimate of Depreciable Lives Incremental Depreciation Expense Reduction The incremental reduction in depreciation expense due to an increase in the accounting estimate of useful lives. Additional 2011 Acquisition [Member] Represents the information pertaining to other acquisitions made in 2011. Additional 2011 acquisition Environmental liability The amount of acquisition cost of a business combination allocated to environmental liability. Business Acquisition Purchase Price Allocation Environmental Liability Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award Options Expected to Vest Annualized Distribution Threshold of Units with Associated DERs Represents the annualized distribution threshold of units with associated DERs. Annualized distribution threshold of units with associated DERs (in dollars per share) Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award Equity Instruments other than Options Vesting Thereafter The decrease in the number of shares that are potentially issuable under a share-based award plan pertaining to awards, for which the grantee has gained the right during the reporting period, by satisfying service and performance requirements to receive or retain shares, other instruments or cash in accordance with the terms of the arrangement thereafter the fourth twelve-month period, following the balance sheet date. Estimated unit vesting thereafter (in units) Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award Shares Canceled in Period Tax Withholding The number of shares associated with an employee's income tax withholding obligation as part of a net-share settlement of a share-based award. Units issued in connection with tax withholding on units vested (in units) Other Agreements [Member] Intangible assets representing the value of the entity's capitalized costs related to other agreements not otherwise specified. Other agreements Business Acquisition Number of Straddle Plants Acquired Number of straddle plants acquired Represents the number of straddle plants acquired in a business combination. Business Acquisition Throughput Capacity of Straddle Plant Acquired Throughput capacity of straddle plant acquired (in Bcf per day) Represents the throughput capacity of straddle plant acquired in a business combination, expressed in Bcf per day. Number of Years Sourcing Services for Gas Supply will be Provided after Acquisition Number of years sourcing services for gas supply will be provided after acquisition Represents the period for which sourcing services for gas supply will be provided, following the closing of the acquisition. Business Acquisition, Purchase Price Allocation, Other Working Capital Including Cash Acquired Other working capital (including cash acquired) The amount of acquisition cost of a business combination allocated to working capital including cash acquired. Business Acquisition, Cost of Acquired Entity Purchase Price, Net of Cash and Other Working Capital Acquired Purchase price net of cash and other working capital acquired Represents an aggregate purchase price of acquired entity net of cash and other working capital acquired. Restatement to Prior Period Limited and General Partner Net Income Allocation [Table Text Block] Tabular disclosure of the effects of restatement of prior period net income attributable to reporting company. Schedule of Revision of Prior Period Limited Partner and General Partner Income Allocation Schedule of Purchase Price Allocation, Other [Table Text Block] Tabular disclosure of aggregate purchase price allocation for acquisitions not material enough to report separately. Business acquisition purchase price allocation - Other Tabular disclosure of revenues and expenses, including purchases and related costs, resulting from transactions with related parties during the period. Sales and transportation storage revenues and purchased petroleum products from companies associated with Oxy Revenues and Expenses Related Parties [Table Text Block] Maximum Size of Smallest Owerner Interest The percentage that owner interest is below for the minimum owner interest. Minimum interest held by principal owners (as a percent) General Partner Incentive Distribution Paid or to be Paid Based on Current Period Earnings Amount of incentive distribution paid or to be paid to the general partner based on earnings related to the current period. Less: General partner's incentive distribution paid Number of Interest Rate Derivatives Terminated Number of interest rate derivative instruments terminated. Number of terminated interest rate swaps (in contracts) Terminated PAA senior unsecured 364-day revolving credit agreement Inactive Three Hundred Sixty Four Day Senior Unsecured Credit Facility [Member] Represents the 364-day senior unsecured credit facility that was originated in December 2011 and currently has not been activated. Conversion of Subordinated Units Number of Consecutive Periods Number of consecutive periods of cash distribution This element represents the number of consecutive periods for which a quarterly cash distribution is paid. Goodwill Purchase Price Accounting and Other Adjustments Purchase price accounting adjustments and other Represents the purchase price accounting adjustments and other required to revise the carrying amount of goodwill to fair value. Other Commitments [Abstract] Other commitments Other Commitments Future Minimum Payments Due Current 2012 The required rental payments and other costs due within one year of the balance sheet date relating to third-party storage and transportation and pipeline agreements in excess of one year. Other Commitments Future Minimum Payments Due in Two Years 2013 The required rental payments and other costs due within the second year of the balance sheet date relating to third-party storage and transportation and pipeline agreements in excess of one year. Other Commitments Future Minimum Payments Due in Three Years 2014 The required rental payments and other costs due within the third year of the balance sheet date relating to third-party storage and transportation and pipeline agreements in excess of one year. Other Commitments Future Minimum Payments Due in Four Years 2015 The required rental payments and other costs due within the fourth year of the balance sheet date relating to third-party storage and transportation and pipeline agreements in excess of one year. Other Commitments Future Minimum Payments Due in Five Years 2016 The required rental payments and other costs due within the fifth year of the balance sheet date relating to third-party storage and transportation and pipeline agreements in excess of one year. Other Commitments Future Minimum Payments Due Thereafter Thereafter The required rental payments and other costs due after the fifth year of the balance sheet date relating to third-party storage and transportation and pipeline agreements in excess of one year. Other Commitments Future Minimum Payments Due Total The total of all future contractually required rental payments and other costs relating to third-party storage and transportation and pipeline agreements in excess of one year. Lease and Other Commitments [Abstract] Leases and other commitments Operating and Capital Leases and Other Commitments Future Minimum Payments Due Current 2012 The required rental payments and other costs due within one year of the balance sheet date relating to leases defined as operating and capital and related to other commitments. Operating and Capital Leases and Other Commitments Future Minimum Payments Due in Two Years 2013 The required rental payments and other costs due within the second year of the balance sheet date relating to leases defined as operating and capital and related to other commitments. Operating and Capital Leases and Other Commitments Future Minimum Payments Due in Three Years 2014 The required rental payments and other costs due within the third year of the balance sheet date relating to leases defined as operating and capital and related to other commitments. Operating and Capital Leases and Other Commitments Future Minimum Payments Due in Four Years 2015 The required rental payments and other costs due within the fourth year of the balance sheet date relating to leases defined as operating and capital and related to other commitments. Operating and Capital Leases and Other Commitments Future Minimum Payments Due in Five Years 2016 The required rental payments and other costs due within the fifth year of the balance sheet date relating to leases defined as operating and capital and related to other commitments. Operating and Capital Leases and Other Commitments Future Minimum Payments Due Thereafter Thereafter The required rental payments and other costs due after the fifth year of the balance sheet date relating to leases defined as operating and capital and related to other commitments. Operating and Capital Leases and Other Commitments Future Minimum Payments Due Total The total of all future contractually required rental payments and other costs on leases defined as operating and capital and related to other commitments. Awards Associated with D E Rs That Begin Payment in February 2012 [Member] Awards associated with DERs that begin payment in February 2012 Represents PNG's long-term incentive plan awards associated with DERs that begin payment in February 2012. Awards Associated with D E Rs That Begin Payment in May 2013 [Member] Awards associated with DERs that begin payment in May 2013 Represents PNG's long-term incentive plan awards associated with DERs that begin payment in May 2013. Awards Associated with D E Rs That Begin Payment in May 2014 [Member] Awards associated with DERs that begin payment in May 2014 Represents PNG's long-term incentive plan awards associated with DERs that begin payment in May 2014. Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award Equity Instruments Other than Options Nonvested Number Remainder Units Outstanding (in units) The description of the number of non-vested equity-based payment instruments, excluding stock (or unit) options, that validly exist and are outstanding as of the balance sheet date. Escrowed purchase price Represents the amount of the purchase price that was escrowed at closing. Business Acquisition Purchase Price Escrowed Inventory Business Acquisition Purchase Price Allocation Linefill The amount of acquisition cost of a business combination allocated to linefill. Losses on disposition of assets Gain Loss on Disposition and Impairment of Assets The gains (losses) included in earnings resulting from the sale or disposal of tangible assets as well as loss recognized as a result of the initial and subsequent write-down of a long-lived asset's carrying amount to fair value. Phantom common units granted associated with the conversion of Series A and Series B subordinated units (in units) Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award Equity Instruments Other than Options Associated with Conversion in Period The number of shares (or other type of equity) issuable under an equity-based award plan pertaining to grants made during the period on other than stock (or unit) option plans (for example, phantom stock or unit plan, stock or unit appreciation rights plan, performance target plan) associated with the conversion of Series A and Series B subordinated units. Senior Notes Due in June 2022 at 3.65 Percent [Member] 3.65% senior notes due June 2022 Represents 3.65 percent senior notes, which are due in June 2022. Senior Notes Due in June 2042 at 5.15 Percent [Member] 5.15% senior notes due June 2042 Represents 5.15 percent senior notes, which are due in June 2042. Partner Income Allocation [Line Items] Partner Income Allocation Number of Operating Segments Operating segments number Number of operating segments. An operating segment is a component of an enterprise: (a) that engages in business activities from which it may earn revenues and incur expenses (including revenues and expenses relating to transactions with other components of the same enterprise), (b) whose operating results are regularly reviewed by the enterprise's chief operating decision maker to make decisions about resources to be allocated to the segment and assess its performance, and (c) for which discrete financial information is available. An operating segment may engage in business activities for which it has yet to earn revenues, for example, start-up operations may be operating segments before earning revenues. Business Acquisition, Expenditures of Purchase Price Allocated for Capital Improvements Expenditures of amount assigned in the purchase price allocation for capital improvements. Expenditures of purchase price allocated to capital improvements Cash received for sale of noncontrolling interest in a subsidiary The cash inflow (outflow) associated with the sale (purchase) of or advances to an entity that is related to it but not strictly controlled (for example, an unconsolidated subsidiary, affiliate, and joint venture or equity method investment) or the sale (purchase) of an additional interest in a subsidiary (controlled entity). Proceeds from Payments for Sale Purchase of Interest in Subsidiaries Other Acquisitions [Member] Other Acquisitions Represents the information pertaining to additional acquisitions. Subordinated Units Distribution Available Threshold Annualized Previous Previous annualized distribution benchmark The previous threshold annualized distribution amount that must be available to units with a higher priority before distributions can be made to the subordinated units. Pemex Exploraciony Produccion [Member] Represents the information pertaining to Pemex Exploracion y Produccion (PEP). Pemex Exploracion y Produccion (PEP) Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options Earned in Period The number of equity-based payment instruments, excluding stock (or unit) options, that became earned during the period. Earned (in units) Cases Filed Number The total number of cases filed. Number of cases filed NGL [Member] NGL The inventory subcategory of natural gas liquids (NGL).