v3.10.0.1
Document And Entity Information
9 Months Ended
Sep. 30, 2018
shares
Document And Entity Information [Abstract]  
Entity Registrant Name NORFOLK SOUTHERN CORP
Entity Central Index Key 0000702165
Current Fiscal Year End Date --12-31
Entity Filer Category Large Accelerated Filer
Document Type 10-Q
Document Period End Date Sep. 30, 2018
Document Fiscal Year Focus 2018
Document Fiscal Period Focus (Q1,Q2,Q3,FY) Q3
Amendment Flag false
Entity Common Stock, Shares Outstanding 272,346,940
Entity Emerging Growth Company false
Entity Small Business false