Woodward (WWD) 10-K 13 Nov 18 2018 FY Annual report Financial data

Document and Entity Information

Document and Entity Information - USD ($)	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2018	Nov. 07, 2018	Mar. 31, 2018
Document and Entity Information
Document Type	10-K
Amendment Flag	false
Document Period End Date	Sep. 30, 2018
Document Fiscal Year Focus	2,018
Document Fiscal Period Focus	FY
Entity Registrant Name	WOODWARD, INC.
Entity Central Index Key	108,312
Current Fiscal Year End Date	--09-30
Entity Well-known Seasoned Issuer	Yes
Entity Voluntary Filers	No
Entity Current Reporting Status	Yes
Trading Symbol	wwd
Entity Filer Category	Large Accelerated Filer
Entity Small Business	false
Entity Emerging Growth Company	false
Entity Shell Company	false
Entity Public Float			$ 3,168,879,941
Entity Common Stock, Shares Outstanding		61,781,668

Consolidated Statements of Earn

Consolidated Statements of Earnings - USD ($) shares in Thousands, $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2018	Sep. 30, 2017	Sep. 30, 2016
Consolidated Statements of Earnings
Net sales	$ 2,325,873	$ 2,098,685	$ 2,023,078
Costs and expenses:
Cost of goods sold	1,719,675	1,526,126	1,483,960
Selling, general and administrative expenses	192,757	176,633	174,017
Research and development costs	148,279	126,519	126,170
Restructuring Charges	17,013
Interest expense	31,770	27,430	26,776
Interest income	(1,674)	(1,725)	(2,025)
Other expense (income), net (Note 17)	(1,525)	(9,045)	(12,306)
Total costs and expenses	2,106,295	1,845,938	1,796,592
Earnings before income taxes	219,578	252,747	226,486
Income tax expense	39,200	52,240	45,648
Net earnings	$ 180,378	$ 200,507	$ 180,838
Earnings per share (Note 3):
Basic earnings per share	$ 2.93	$ 3.27	$ 2.92
Diluted earnings per share	$ 2.82	$ 3.16	$ 2.85
Weighted Average Common Shares Outstanding (Note 3):
Basic	61,493	61,366	61,893
Diluted	63,876	63,512	63,556

Consolidated Statements of Comp

Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Earnings - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2018	Sep. 30, 2017	Sep. 30, 2016
Comprehensive earnings
Net earnings	$ 180,378	$ 200,507	$ 180,838
Other comprehensive earnings:
Foreign currency translation adjustments	(12,985)	45	(6,615)
Net gain (loss) on foreign currency transactions designated as hedges of net investments in a foreign subsidiaries	838	(1,942)	792
Taxes on changes in foreign currency translation adjustments	(367)	588	1,462
Foreign currency translation and transactions adjustments, net of tax	(12,514)	(1,309)	(4,361)
Unrealized loss on fair value adjustment of derivative instruments	(23,000)
Reclassification of net realized (gains) losses on derivatives to earnings	1,467	(72)	21
Taxes on changes in derivative transactions	456	28	(8)
Derivative adjustments, net of tax	(21,077)	(44)	13
Minimum retirement benefit liability adjustments:
Net gain (loss) arising during the period	13,805	22,979	(19,718)
Loss (gain) due to settlement or curtailment arising during the period	59		47
Amortization of net prior service cost (benefit)	551	(3,470)	226
Amortization of net loss	985	2,570	1,694
Foreign currency exchange rate changes on pension and other postretirement benefit plan liabilities	367	(43)	2,239
Taxes on changes in minimum retirement benefit liability adjustments	(3,932)	(8,164)	5,613
Pension and other postretirement benefit plan adjustments, net of tax	11,835	13,872	(9,899)
Total comprehensive earnings	$ 158,622	$ 213,026	$ 166,591

Consolidated Balance Sheets

Consolidated Balance Sheets - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Sep. 30, 2018	Sep. 30, 2017
Current assets:
Cash and cash equivalents, including restricted cash of $3,635 and $0, respectively	$ 83,594	$ 87,552
Inventories	549,596	473,505
Accounts receivable, less allowance for uncollectible amounts of $3,938 and $3,776, respectively	431,820	402,182
Income taxes receivable	6,397	19,376
Other current assets	43,390	38,574
Total current assets	1,114,797	1,021,189
Property, plant and equipment, net	1,060,005	922,043
Goodwill	813,250	556,545
Intangible assets, net	700,883	171,882
Deferred income tax assets	16,570	19,950
Other assets	85,144	65,500
Total assets	3,790,649	2,757,109
Current liabilities:
Short-term borrowings and current portion of long-term debt	153,635	32,600
Accounts payable	226,285	232,788
Income taxes payable	16,745	6,774
Accrued liabilities	194,513	155,072
Total current liabilities	591,178	427,234
Long-term debt, less current portion	1,092,397	580,286
Deferred income tax liabilities	170,915	33,408
Other liabilities	398,055	344,798
Total liabilities	2,252,545	1,385,726
Stockholders' equity:
Preferred stock, par value $0.003 per share, 10,000 shares authorized, no shares issued	0	0
Common stock, par value $0.001455 per share, 150,000 shares authorized, 72,960 shares issued	106	106
Additional paid-in capital	185,705	163,836
Accumulated other comprehensive losses	(74,942)	(53,186)
Deferred compensation	8,431	7,135
Retained earnings	1,966,643	1,820,268
Stockholders' equity excluding treasury stock	2,085,943	1,938,159
Treasury stock at cost, 11,203 shares and 11,739 shares, respectively	(539,408)	(559,641)
Treasury stock held for deferred compensation, at cost, 202 shares and 186 shares, respectively	(8,431)	(7,135)
Total Stockholders' Equity	1,538,104	1,371,383
Total liabilities and stockholders' equity	$ 3,790,649	$ 2,757,109

Consolidated Balance Sheets (Pa

Consolidated Balance Sheets (Parenthetical) - USD ($) shares in Thousands, $ in Thousands	Sep. 30, 2018	Sep. 30, 2017
Current assets:
Restricted cash	$ 3,635	$ 0
Allowance, accounts receivable	$ 3,938	$ 3,776
Stockholders' equity:
Preferred stock, par value	$ 0.003	$ 0.003
Preferred stock, shares authorized	10,000	10,000
Preferred stock, shares issued	0	0
Common stock, par value	$ 0.001455	$ 0.001455
Common stock, shares authorized	150,000	150,000
Common stock, shares issued	72,960	72,960
Treasury stock, shares	11,203	11,739
Treasury stock held for deferred compensation, shares	202	186

Consolidated Statements of Cash

Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2018	Sep. 30, 2017	Sep. 30, 2016
Cash flows from operating activities:
Net earnings	$ 180,378	$ 200,507	$ 180,838
Adjustments to reconcile net earnings to net cash provided by operating activities:
Depreciation and amortization	116,131	80,917	69,036
Loss (gain) due to settlements or curtailments of postretirement plan	(330)	0	47
Net (gain) loss on sales of assets	(1,106)	(3,604)	(4,431)
Stock-based compensation	18,229	17,282	15,122
Deferred income taxes	(30,177)	22,772	(52,744)
(Gain) loss on derivatives reclassified from accumulated comprehensive earnings into earnings	1,467	(72)	21
Proceeds from formation of joint venture (Note 4)			250,000
Changes in operating assets and liabilities:
Accounts receivable	(6,494)	(53,151)	(9,190)
Inventories	(7,660)	(10,857)	(17,658)
Accounts payable and accrued liabilities	(2,284)	64,659	17,461
Income taxes	35,641	3,323	(834)
Retirement benefit obligations	(4,653)	(2,932)	(3,416)
Other	150	(11,307)	(8,873)
Net cash provided by operating activities	299,292	307,537	435,379
Cash flows from investing activities:
Payments for purchase of property, plant and equipment	(127,140)	(92,336)	(175,692)
Proceeds from sale of assets	1,923	3,743	6,664
Proceeds from sales of short-term investments	9,088	5,313
Payments for purchases of short-term investments	(9,323)	(8,586)	(4,918)
Business acquisitions, net of cash acquired	(771,115)
Net cash used in investing activities	(896,567)	(91,866)	(173,946)
Cash flows from financing activities:
Cash dividends paid	(34,003)	(29,745)	(26,606)
Proceeds from sales of treasury stock	9,132	14,195	15,892
Payments for repurchases of common stock	0	(71,751)	(125,541)
Borrowings on revolving lines of credit and short-term borrowings	1,930,261	1,506,000	695,000
Payments on revolving lines of credit and short-term borrowings	(1,691,934)	(1,630,100)	(890,896)
Proceeds from issuance of long-term debt	400,000		179,308
Payments of long-term debt and capital lease obligations	(421)	(412)	(107,287)
Payments of debt financing costs	(1,494)		(863)
Payment for forward option derivative instrument	(5,543)
Net cash used in financing activities	605,998	(211,813)	(260,993)
Effect of exchange rate changes on cash and cash equivalents	(12,681)	2,604	(1,552)
Net change in cash and cash equivalents	(3,958)	6,462	(1,112)
Cash and cash equivalents, including restricted cash at beginning of year	87,552	81,090	82,202
Cash and cash equivalents, including restricted cash at end of period	$ 83,594	$ 87,552	$ 81,090

Consolidated Statements of Stoc

Consolidated Statements of Stockholders' Equity - USD ($) shares in Thousands, $ in Thousands	Total stockholders equity	Preferred Stock [Member]	Common Stock [Member]	Additional Paid-in Capital [Member]	Total Accumulated Other Comprehensive (Loss) Earnings [Member]	Foreign Currency Translation Adjustments [Member]	Unrealized Derivative Gains (Losses) [Member]	Minimum Retirement Benefit Liability Adjustments [Member]	Deferred Compensation in Equity [Member]	Retained Earnings [Member]	Treasury Stock at Cost [Member]	Treasury Stock Held for Deferred Compensaton [Member]	Total
Balances at Sep. 30, 2015	$ 1,153,104		$ 106	$ 131,231	$ (51,458)	$ (21,610)	$ 166	$ (30,014)	$ 4,322	$ 1,495,274	$ (422,049)	$ (4,322)
Balance, Common Stock, shares at Sep. 30, 2015			72,960
Balance, Treasury Stock, shares at Sep. 30, 2015											(9,763)	(173)
Net earnings	180,838	$ 0	$ 0	0	0	0	0	0	0	180,838	$ 0	$ 0	$ 180,838
Other comprehensive income (loss), net of tax	(14,247)	0	0	0	(14,247)	(4,361)	13	(9,899)	0	0	0	0
Cash dividends paid	(26,606)	0	0	0	0	0	0	0	0	(26,606)	0	0
Purchases of treasury stock	(126,295)	0	0	0	0	0	0	0	0	0	$ (126,295)	0
Purchases of treasury stock, shares											(2,660)
Sales of treasury stock	16,645	0	0	(10,137)	0	0	0	0	0	0	$ 26,782	0
Sales of treasury stock, shares											732
Common shares issued from treasury stock to settle employee liabilities	13,999	0	0	5,319	0	0	0	0	0	0	$ 8,680	0	0
Common shares issued from treasury stock to settle employee liabilities, shares											317
Common shares issued from treasury stock for benefit plans													$ 13,999
Common shares issued from treasury stock for benefit plans, shares													317
Tax benefit attributable to stock-based compensation	35	0	0	35	0	0	0	0	0	0	$ 0	0
Stock-based compensation	15,122	0	0	15,122	0	0	0	0	0	0	0	0
Purchases of stock by deferred compensation plan	0	0	0	0	0	0	0	0	1,269	0	0	$ (1,269)
Purchases of stock by deferred compensation plan, shares												(25)
Distribution of stock from deferred compensation plan	0	$ 0	0	0	0	0	0	0	(502)	0	0	$ 502
Distribution of stock from deferred compensation plan, shares												41
Balances at Sep. 30, 2016	1,212,595		$ 106	141,570	(65,705)	(25,971)	179	(39,913)	5,089	1,649,506	$ (512,882)	$ (5,089)
Balance, Preferred Stock, shares at Sep. 30, 2016		0
Balance, Common Stock, shares at Sep. 30, 2016			72,960
Balance, Treasury Stock, shares at Sep. 30, 2016											(11,374)	(157)
Net earnings	200,507									200,507			$ 200,507
Other comprehensive income (loss), net of tax	12,519				12,519	(1,309)	(44)	13,872
Cash dividends paid	(29,745)									(29,745)
Purchases of treasury stock	(73,224)										$ (73,224)
Purchases of treasury stock, shares											(1,056)
Sales of treasury stock	15,668			(2,257)							$ 17,925
Sales of treasury stock, shares											466
Common shares issued from treasury stock to settle employee liabilities	1,767			740					1,767		$ 1,027	$ (1,767)	1,767
Common shares issued from treasury stock to settle employee liabilities, shares											26	(26)
Common shares issued from treasury stock for benefit plans	14,014			6,501							$ 7,513		$ 14,014
Common shares issued from treasury stock for benefit plans, shares											199		199
Stock-based compensation	17,282			17,282
Purchases of stock by deferred compensation plan									298			$ (298)
Purchases of stock by deferred compensation plan, shares												(3)
Distribution of stock from deferred compensation plan									(19)			$ 19
Balances at Sep. 30, 2017	1,371,383		$ 106	163,836	(53,186)	(27,280)	135	(26,041)	7,135	1,820,268	$ (559,641)	$ (7,135)	$ 1,371,383
Balance, Preferred Stock, shares at Sep. 30, 2017		0											0
Balance, Common Stock, shares at Sep. 30, 2017			72,960										72,960
Balance, Treasury Stock, shares at Sep. 30, 2017											(11,739)		(11,739)
Balance, Treasury stock held for deferred compensation, Shares at Sep. 30, 2017												(186)	(186)
Net earnings	180,378									180,378			$ 180,378
Other comprehensive income (loss), net of tax	(21,756)				(21,756)	(12,514)	(21,077)	11,835
Cash dividends paid	(34,003)									(34,003)
Sales of treasury stock	9,132			(3,517)							$ 12,649
Sales of treasury stock, shares											334
Common shares issued from treasury stock to settle employee liabilities													0
Common shares issued from treasury stock for benefit plans	14,741			7,157							$ 7,584		$ 14,741
Common shares issued from treasury stock for benefit plans, shares											202		202
Stock-based compensation	18,229			18,229
Purchases of stock by deferred compensation plan									1,318			$ (1,318)
Purchases of stock by deferred compensation plan, shares												(17)
Distribution of stock from deferred compensation plan									(22)			$ 22
Distribution of stock from deferred compensation plan, shares												1
Balances at Sep. 30, 2018	$ 1,538,104		$ 106	$ 185,705	$ (74,942)	$ (39,794)	$ (20,942)	$ (14,206)	$ 8,431	$ 1,966,643	$ (539,408)	$ (8,431)	$ 1,538,104
Balance, Preferred Stock, shares at Sep. 30, 2018		0											0
Balance, Common Stock, shares at Sep. 30, 2018			72,960										72,960
Balance, Treasury Stock, shares at Sep. 30, 2018											(11,203)		(11,203)
Balance, Treasury stock held for deferred compensation, Shares at Sep. 30, 2018												(202)	(202)

Consolidated Statement of Stock

Consolidated Statement of Stockholders' Equity (Parenthetical) - $ / shares	3 Months Ended								12 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2018	Jun. 30, 2018	Mar. 31, 2018	Dec. 31, 2017	Sep. 30, 2017	Jun. 30, 2017	Mar. 31, 2017	Dec. 31, 2016	Sep. 30, 2018	Sep. 30, 2017	Sep. 30, 2016
Stockholders Equity [Abstract]
Common Stock, Dividends, Per Share, Cash Paid	$ 0.1425	$ 0.1425	$ 0.1425	$ 0.1250	$ 0.1250	$ 0.1250	$ 0.1250	$ 0.1100	$ 0.5525	$ 0.4850	$ 0.4300

Operations and summary of signi

Operations and summary of significant accounting policies	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2018
Basis of Presentation
Operations and Summary of Significant Accounting Policies	WOODWARD, INC. NOTES TO CONSOLIDA TED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (In thousands, except per share amounts) Note 1. Operations and summary of significant accounting policies Basis of presentation The Consolidated Financial Statements are prepared in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America (“U.S. GAAP”) and include the accounts of Woodward, Inc. and its subsidiaries (collectively “Woodward” or “the Company”). Dollar amounts contained in these Consolidated Financial Statements are in thousands, except per share amounts. Nature of operations Woodward enhances the global quality of life, creating innovative energy control solutions that optimize the performance, efficiency and emissions of its customers’ products. Woodward is an independent designer, manufacturer, and service provider of energy control and optimization solutions. Woodward designs, produces and services reliable, efficient, low-emission, and high-performance energy control products for diverse applications in challenging environments. Woodward has significant production and assembly facilities in the United States, Europe and Asia, and promotes its products and services through its worldwide locations. Woodward’s strategic focus is providing energy control and optimization solutions for the aerospace and industrial markets. The precise and efficient control of energy, including motion, fluid, combustion and electrical energy, is a growing requirement in the markets Woodward serves. Woodward’s customers look to it to optimize the efficiency, emissions and operation of power equipment in both commercial and defense operations. Woodward’s core technologies leverage well across its markets and customer applications, enabling it to develop and integrate cost-effective and state-of-the-art fuel, combustion, fluid, actuation and electronic systems. Woodward focuses its solutions and services primarily on serving original equipment manufacturers (“OEMs”) and equipment packagers, partnering with them to bring superior component and system solutions to their demanding applications. Woodward also provides aftermarket repair, maintenance, replacement and other service support for its installed products. Woodward’s components and integrated systems optimize performance of commercial aircraft, defense aircraft, military ground vehicles and other equipment, gas and steam turbines, wind turbines, including converters and power grid related equipment, industrial diesel, gas, bio-diesel and dual-fuel reciprocating engines, and electrical power systems. Woodward’s innovative motion, fluid, combustion and electrical energy control systems help its customers offer more cost-effective, cleaner, and more reliable equipment. Summary of significant accounting policies Principles of consolid ation: These Consolidated Financial Statements are prepared in accordance with U.S. GAAP and include the accounts of Woodward and its wholly and majority-owned subsidiaries. Transactions within and between these companies are eliminated. Use of estimates: The preparation of the Consolidated Financial Statements requires management to make use of estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amount of assets and liabilities, at the date of the financial statements and the reported revenues and expenses recognized during the reporting period, and certain financial statement disclosures. Significant estimates include allowances for uncollectible amounts, net realizable value of inventories, customer rebates earned, useful lives of property and identifiable intangible assets, the evaluation of impairments of property, identifiable intangible assets and goodwill, the provision for income tax and related valuation reserves, the valuation of assets and liabilities acquired in business combinations, assumptions used in the determination of the funded status and annual expense of pension and postretirement employee benefit plans, the valuation of stock compensation instruments granted to employees, and contingencies. Actual results could differ from those estimates. Foreign currency exchange rates: The assets and liabilities of substantially all subsidiaries outside the United States are translated at fiscal year-end rates of exchange, and earnings and cash flow statements are translated at weighted-average rates of exchange. T he exchange rate in effect at the time of the cash flow is used for significant or infrequent cash flows, such as payments for a business acquisition, for which the use of weighted-average rates of exchange would result in a substantially different cash flow. Translation adjustments are accumulated with other comprehensive (losses) earnings as a separate component of stockholders’ equity and are presented net of tax effects in the Consolidated Statements of Stockholders’ Equity. The effects of changes in foreign currency exchange rates on loans between consolidated subsidiaries that are considered permanent in nature are also accumulated with other comprehensive earnings, net of tax. The Company is exposed to market risks related to fluctuations in foreign currency exchange rates because some sales transactions, and certain of the assets and liabilities of its domestic and foreign subsidiaries, are denominated in foreign currencies. Selling, general, and administrative expenses include a net foreign currency loss of $1,608 in fiscal year 2018, net foreign currency loss of $651 in fiscal year 2017, and a net foreign currency gain of $701 in fiscal year 2016. Revenue recognition: Woodward recognizes revenue upon shipment or delivery of products or services and when collectability is reasonably assured. Delivery is upon completion of manufacturing, customer acceptance, and the transfer of the risks and rewards of ownership. In countries whose laws provide for retention of some form of title by sellers, enabling recovery of goods in the event of customer default on payment, product delivery is considered to have occurred when the customer has assumed the risks and rewards of ownership of the products. Occasionally, Woodward transfers title of product to customers, but retains substantive performance obligations such as completion of product testing, customer acceptance or in some instances regulatory acceptance. In addition, occasionally customers pay Woodward for products or services prior to Woodward satisfying its performance obligation. Under these circumstances, revenue is deferred until the performance obligations are satisfied. In addition, service revenue is also recognized upon completion of applicable performance obligations. Certain Woodward products include incidental software or firmware essential to the performance of the product as designed, which are treated as units of accounting associated with the related tangible product with which the software is included. Woodward does not generally sell software on a standalone basis, although software upgrades, if any, are generally paid for by the customer. Revenue for certain non-recurring engineering projects is recognized when contractually specified milestones are achieved. Product freight costs are included in cost of goods sold. Freight costs charged to customers are included in net sales. Taxes collected from customers and remitted to government authorities are excluded from revenue and are recorded as liabilities until the taxes are remitted to the appropriate U.S. or foreign government authority. Net sales generated through shipment of tangible products to customers represents more than 90% of total net sales for fiscal years 2018, 2017 and 2016. For discussion of the impacts of the adoption of Accounting Standards Cod ification Topic 606 on r evenue recognition, see Note 2, New accounting standards . Customer payments : Woodward occasionally agrees to make payments to certain customers in order to participate in anticipated sales activity. Payments made to customers are accounted for as a reduction of revenue unless they are made in exchange for identifiable goods or services with fair values that can be reasonably estimated. Reductions in revenue associated with these customer payments are recognized immediately to the extent that the payments cannot be attributed to anticipated future sales, and are recognized in future periods to the extent that the payments relate to anticipated future sales. Such determinations are based on the facts and circumstances underlying each payment. Stock-based compensation: Compensation cost relating to stock-based payment awards made to employees and directors is recognized in the financial statements using a fair value method. Non-qualified stock option awards and restricted stock awards are issued under Woodward’s stock-based compensation plans. The cost of such awards, measured at the grant date, is based on the estimated fair value of the award. Forfeitures are estimated at the time of each grant in order to estimate the portion of the award that will ultimately vest. The estimate is based on Woodward’s historical rates of forfeitures and is updated periodically. The portion of the award that is ultimately expected to vest is recognized as expense over the requisite service periods, which is generally the vesting period of the awards. Research and development costs : Company funded expenditures related to new product development, and significant product enhancement and/or upgrade activities are expensed as incurred and are separately reported in the Consolidated Statements of Earnings. Income taxes: Deferred income taxes are provided for the temporary differences between the financial reporting basis and the tax basis of Woodward’s assets, liabilities, and certain unrecognized gains and losses recorded in accumulated other comprehensive (losses) earnings. Woodward provides for taxes that may be payable if undistributed earnings of overseas subsidiaries were to be remitted to the United States, except for those earnings that it considers to be indefinitely invested. Cash equivalents: Highly liquid investments purchased with an original maturity of three months or less are considered to be cash equivalents. Cash and cash equivalents are maintained with multiple financial institutions. Generally, these deposits may be redeemed upon demand and are maintained with financial institutions with reputable credit and therefore bear minimal credit risk. Woodward holds cash and cash equivalents at financial institutions in excess of amounts covered by the Federal Depository Insurance Corporation (the “FDIC”), sometimes invests excess cash in money market funds or other highly liquid investments not insured by the FDIC, and holds cash and cash equivalents outside the United States that are not insured by the FDIC. Accounts receivable: Almost all of Woodward’s sales are made on credit and result in accounts receivable, which are recorded at the amount invoiced and are generally not collateralized. In the normal course of business, not all accounts receivable are collected and, therefore, an allowance for uncollectible amounts is provided equal to the amount that Woodward believes ultimately will not be collected, either from credit risk or other adjustments to the original selling price or anticipated cash discounts. In establishing the amount of the allowance related to the credit risk of accounts receivable, customer-specific information is considered related to delinquent accounts, past loss experience, bankruptcy filings, deterioration in the customer’s operating results or financial position, and current economic conditions. Bad debt losses are deducted from the allowance, and the related accounts receivable balances are written off when the receivables are deemed uncollectible. Recoveries of accounts receivable previously written off are recognized when received. The allowance associated with anticipated other adjustments to the selling price or cash discounts is also established and is included in the allowance for uncollectible amounts. In establishing this amount, both customer-specific information as well as historical experience is considered. In coordination with its customers and when terms are considered favorable to Woodward, Woodward from time to time transfers ownership to collect amounts due to Woodward for outstanding accounts receivable to third parties in exchange for cash. When the transfer of accounts receivable meets the criteria of F inancial A ccounting S tandards B oard (“FASB”) Accounting Standards Codification (“ ASC’) Topic 860-10, “Transfers and Servicing,” and are without recourse, it is recognized as a sale and the accounts receivable is derecognized. Consistent with common business practice in China, Woodward’s Chinese subsidiary accepts from Chinese customers, in settlement of certain customer accounts receivable, bankers’ acceptance notes issued by Chinese banks that are believed to be creditworthy. Bankers’ acceptance notes are financial instruments issued by Chinese financial institutions as part of financing arrangements between the financial institution and a customer of the financial institution. Bankers’ acceptance notes represent a commitment by the issuing financial institution to pay a certain amount of money at a specified future maturity date to the legal owner of the bankers’ acceptance note as of the maturity date. The maturity date of bankers’ acceptance notes varies, but it is Woodward’s policy to only accept bankers’ acceptance notes with maturity dates no more than 180 days from the date of Woodward’s receipt of such draft. The issuing financial institution is the obligor, not Woodward’s customers. Upon Woodward’s acceptance of a banker’s acceptance note from a customer, such customer has no further obligation to pay Woodward for the related accounts receivable balance. Woodward only accepts bankers’ acceptance notes issued by banks that are believed to be creditworthy and to which the credit risks associated with the bankers’ acceptance notes are believed to be minimal. The composition of Woodward’s accounts receivable at September 30, 2018 and September 30, 2017 follows:     September 30, September 30,  2018 2017  Accounts receivable from:  Customers $ 412,567 $ 367,715  Other (Chinese financial institutions) 23,191 38,243  Allowance for uncollectible customer amounts (3,938) (3,776)  $ 431,820 $ 402,182 Inventories: Inventories are valued at the lower of cost or net realizable value, with cost being determined using methods that approximate a first-in, first-out basis. Short-term investments: From time to time, certain of Woodward’s foreign subsidiaries will invest excess cash in short-term time deposits with a fixed maturity date of longer than three months but less than one year from the date of the deposit. Woodward believes that the investments are with creditworthy financial institutions. Amounts with maturities of less than 365 days are classified as “Other current assets.” Property, plant, and equipment: Property, plant, and equipment are recorded at cost and are depreciated over the estimated useful lives of the assets. Assets are generally depreciated using the straight-line method. Assets are tested for recoverability whenever events or circumstances indicate the carrying value may not be recoverable. Estimated lives over which fixed assets are generally depreciated at September 30, 2018 were as follows:    Land improvements 3 - 20 years  Buildings and improvements 3 - 40 years  Leasehold improvements 1 - 10 years  Machinery and production equipment 3 - 20 years  Computer equipment and software 1 - 10 years  Office furniture and equipment 3 - 10 years  Other 3 - 10 years Included in computer equipment and software are Woodward’s enterprise resource planning (“ERP”) systems, which have an estimated useful life of 10 years. All other computer equipment and software is generally depreciated over three to five years. Purchase accounting: Business combinations are accounted for using the purchase method of accounting. Under the purchase method, assets and liabilities, including intangible assets, are recorded at their fair values as of the acquisition date. Acquisition costs in excess of amounts assigned to assets acquired and liabilities assumed are recorded as goodwill. Transaction-related costs associated with business combinations are expensed as incurred. Goodwill: Woodward tests goodwill for impairment at the reporting unit level on an annual basis and more often if an event occurs or circumstances change that would more likely than not reduce the fair value of a reporting unit below its carrying amount. Based on the relevant U.S. GAAP authoritative guidance, Woodward aggregates components of a single operating segment into a reporting unit, if appropriate. The impairment tests consist of comparing the implied fair value of each reporting unit with its carrying amount that includes goodwill. If the carrying amount of the reporting unit exceeds its implied fair value, Woodward compares the implied fair value of goodwill with the recorded carrying amount of goodwill. If the carrying amount of goodwill exceeds the implied fair value of goodwill, an impairment loss would be recognized to reduce the carrying amount to its implied fair value. Based on the results of Woodward’s goodwill impairment testing it has recorded no impairment charges in the year ended September 30, 2018 or since the goodwill was originally recognized. Other intangibles: Other intangibles are recognized apart from goodwill whenever an acquired intangible asset arises from contractual or other legal rights, or whenever it is capable of being separated or divided from the acquired entity and sold, transferred, licensed, rented, or exchanged, either individually or in combination with a related contract, asset, or liability. Woodward amortizes the cost of other intangibles over their useful lives unless such lives are deemed indefinite. The cost of amortizable other intangibles are amortized over their respective useful life using patterns that reflect the periods over which the economic benefits of the assets are expected to be realized. Amortization expense is allocated to cost of goods sold and selling, general, and administrative expenses based on the nature of the intangible asset. Amortizable other intangible assets are reviewed for impairment whenever an event occurs or circumstances change indicating that the related carrying amount of the other intangible asset may not be recoverable. Impairment losses are recognized if the carrying amount of an intangible is both not recoverable and exceeds its fair value. Intangible assets with indefinite lives are tested annually for impairment and written down to fair value as required. Woodward has recorded no impairment charges related to its other intangibles as of September 30, 2018 or since the other intangibles originally recorded. Estimated lives over which intangible assets are amortized at September 30, 2018 were as follows:     Backlog 1 year  Customer relationships and contracts 9 - 30 years  Intellectual property 10 - 17 years  Process technology 8 - 30 years  Other 3 - 15 years Impairment of long-lived assets: Woodward reviews the carrying amount of its long-lived assets or asset groups to be used in operations whenever events or changes in circumstances indicate that the carrying amount of the assets might not be recoverable. Factors that would necessitate an impairment assessment include a significant adverse change in the extent or manner in which an asset is used, a significant adverse change in legal factors or the business climate that could affect the value of the asset, or a significant decline in the observable market value of an asset, among others. If such facts indicate a potential impairment, the Company would assess the recoverability of an asset group by determining if the carrying amount of the asset group exceeds the sum of the projected undiscounted cash flows expected to result from the use and eventual disposition of the assets over the remaining economic life of the primary asset in the asset group. If the recoverability test indicates that the carrying amount of the asset group is not recoverable, the Company will estimate the fair value of the asset group using appropriate valuation methodologies, which would typically include an estimate of discounted cash flows. Any impairment would be measured as the difference between the asset groups carrying amount and its estimated fair value. There were no impairment charges recorded in fiscal years 2018, 2017 or 2016. Investment in marketable equity securities: Woodward holds marketable equity securities related to its deferred compensation program. Based on Woodward’s intentions regarding these instruments, marketable equity securities are classified as trading securities. The trading securities are reported at fair value, with realized gains and losses recognized in “Other (income) expense, net.” The trading securities are included in “Other assets.” The associated obligation to provide benefits under the deferred compensation program is included in “Other liabilities.” Investments in unconsolidated subsidiaries: Investments in, and operating results of, entities in which Woodward does not have a controlling financial interest or the ability to exercise significant influence over the operations are included in the financial statements using the cost method of accounting. Investments and operating results of entities in which Woodward does not have a controlling interest but does have the ability to exercise significant influence over operations are included in the financial statements using the equity method of accounting. Deferred compensation: The Company maintains a deferred compensation plan, or “rabbi trust,” as part of its overall compensation package for certain employees. Deferred compensation obligations will be settled either by delivery of a fixed number of shares of Woodward’s common stock (in accordance with certain eligible members’ irrevocable elections) or in cash. Woodward has contributed shares of its common stock into a trust established for the future settlement of deferred compensation obligations that are payable in shares of Woodward’s common stock. Common stock held by the trust is reflected in the Consolidated Balance Sheet as “Treasury stock held for deferred compensation” and the related deferred compensation obligation is reflected as a separate component of equity in amounts equal to the fair value of the common stock at the dates of contribution. These accounts are not adjusted for subsequent changes in the fair value of the common stock. Deferred compensation obligations that will be settled in cash are accounted for on an accrual basis in accordance with the terms of the underlying contract and are reflected in the Consolidated Balance Sheet as “Other liabilities.” Derivatives: The Company is exposed to various market risks, including the effect of changes in interest rates, foreign currency exchange rates, changes in certain commodity prices and fluctuations in various producer indices. From time to time, Woodward enters into derivative instruments for risk management purposes only, including derivatives designated as accounting hedges and/or those utilized as economic hedges. Woodward does not enter into or issue derivatives for trading or speculative purposes. To mitigate interest rate risk, the Company has utilized derivative instruments, such as treasury lock agreements to lock in fixed rates on future debt issuances, which qualify as cash flow or fair value hedges to mitigate the risk of variability in cash flows related to future interest payments attributable to changes in the designated benchmark rate. The Company records all such interest rate hedge instruments on the balance sheet at fair value. Cash flows related to the instrument designated as a qualifying hedge are reflected in the accompanying Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows in the same categories as the cash flows from the items being hedged. Accordingly, cash flows relating to the settlement of interest rate derivatives hedging the forecasted future interest payments on debt have been reflected upon settlement as a component of financing cash flows. The resulting gain or loss from such settlement is deferred to other comprehensive income and reclassified to interest expense over the term of the underlying debt. This reclassification of the deferred gains and losses impacts the interest expense recognized on the underlying debt that was hedged and is therefore reflected as a component of operating cash flows in periods subsequent to settlement. The periodic settlement of interest rate derivatives hedging outstanding variable rate debt is recorded as an adjustment to interest expense and is therefore reflected as a component of operating cash flows. From time to time, in order to hedge against foreign currency exposure, Woodward designates certain non-derivative financial instrument loans as net investment hedges. Foreign exchange gains or losses on these loans are recognized in foreign currency translation adjustments within total comprehensive (losses) earnings. Also, to hedge against the foreign currency exposure attributable to the spot remeasurement its Euro denominated intercompany loan s, Woodward has entered into derivative instruments in fair value hedging relationships, and derivative instruments in cash flow hedging relationships to hedge the risk of variability in cash flows attributable to the foreign currency exchange risk of cash flows for future principal and interest payments associated with its Euro denominated intercompany loans. Further information on net investment hedges and derivative instruments in fair value and cash flow hedging relationships, including the Company’s policy in accounting for these derivatives, can be found at Note 7, Derivative instruments and hedging activities . Financial instruments: The Company’s financial instruments include cash and cash equivalents, short-term investments, investments in the deferred compensation program, notes receivable from municipalities, investments in term deposits, cross currency interest rate swaps and debt. Because of their short-term maturity, the carrying amount of cash and cash equivalents, and short-term debt approximate fair value. The fair value of investments in the deferred compensation program are adjusted to fair value based on the quoted market prices for the investments in the various mutual funds owned. The fair value of the long-term notes from municipalities are estimated based on a model that discounts future principal and interest payments received at interest rates available to the Company at the end of the period for similarly rated municipal notes of similar maturity. The fair value of term deposits are estimated based on a model that discounts future principal and interest payments received at interest rates available to the Company at the end of the period for similar term deposits with the same maturity in the same jurisdictions. The fair value of the cross currency interest rate swaps are determined using a market approach that is based on observable inputs other than quoted market prices, including contract terms, interest rates, currency rates, and other market factors. The fair value of long-term debt is estimated based on a model that discounts future principal and interest payments at interest rates available to the Company at the end of the period for similar debt with the same maturity. Further information on the fair value of financial instruments can be found at Note 6, Financial instruments and fair value measurements . Financial assets and liabilities recorded at fair value in the Consolidated Balance Sheets are categorized based upon a fair value hierarchy established by U.S. GAAP, which prioritizes the inputs used to measure fair value into the following levels: Level 1: Inputs based on quoted market prices in active markets for identical assets or liabilities at the measurement date. Level 2: Quoted prices included in Level 1, such as quoted prices for similar assets or liabilities in active markets; quoted prices for identical or similar assets and liabilities in markets that are not active; or other inputs that are observable and can be corroborated by observable market data. Level 3: Inputs reflect management’s best estimates and assumptions of what market participants would use in pricing the asset or liability at the measurement date. The inputs are unobservable in the market and significant to the valuation of the instruments. Postretirement benefits: The Company provides various benefits to certain current and former employees through defined benefit pension and postretirement plans. For financial reporting purposes, net periodic benefits expense and related obligations are calculated using a number of significant actuarial assumptions. Changes in net periodic expense and funding status may occur in the future due to changes in these assumptions. The funded status of defined pension and postretirement plans recognized in the statement of financial position is measured as the difference between the fair market value of the plan assets and the benefit obligation. For a defined benefit pension plan, the benefit obligation is the projected benefit obligation; for any ot her defined benefit postretirement plan, such as a retiree health care plan, the benefit obligation is the accumulated benefit obligation. Any over-funded status is recognized as an asset and any underfunded status is recognized as a liability. Projected benefit obligation is the actuarial present value as of the measurement date of all benefits attributed by the plan benefit formula to employee service rendered before the measurement date using assumptions as to future compensation levels if the plan benefit formula is based on those future compensation levels. The accumulated benefit obligation is the actuarial present value of benefits (whether vested or unvested) attributed by the plan benefit formula to employee service rendered before the measurement date and based on employee service and compensation, if applicable, prior to that date. The accumulated benefit obligation differs from the projected benefit obligation in that it includes no assumption about future compensation levels .

New Accounting Standards

New Accounting Standards	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2018
Recent Accounting Pronouncements
New Accounting Pronouncements and Changes in Accounting Principles [Text Block]	Note 2. New accounting standards From time to time, the Financial Accounting Standards Board (“FASB”) or other standards setting bodies issue new accounting pronouncements. Updates to the ASC are communicated through issuance of an Accounting Standards Update (“ASU”). In August 2018, the FASB issued ASU 2018-14, “Compensation – Retirement Benefits – Defined Benefit Plans - General (Topic 715-20): Disclosure Framework – Changes to the Disclosure Requirements for Defined Benefit Plan.” ASU 2018-14 amends ASC 715 to add, remove, and modify disclosure requirements related to defined benefit pension and other postretirement plans. The ASU’s changes to disclosures aim to improve the effectiveness of ASC 715’s disclosure requirements under the FASB’s disclosure framework project. ASU 2018-14 is effective for public entities for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2020 (fiscal year 2022 for Woodward). ASU 2018-14 does not impact the interim disclosure requirements of ASC 715. The amendments in ASU 2018-14 should be applied on a retrospective basis to all periods presented. Early adoption is permitted. Woodward will adopt the new and modified disclosures requirements of this new guidance in fiscal year 2022. Also in August 2018, the FASB issued ASU 2018-13, “Fair Value Measurement (Topic 820): Disclosure Framework – Changes to the Disclosure Requirements for Fair Value Measurement.” ASU 2018-13 amends ASC 820 to add, remove, and modify fair value measurement disclosure requirements . The ASU’s changes to disclosures aim to improve the effectiveness of ASC 820’s disclosure requirements under the aforementioned FASB disclosure framework project. ASU 2018-13 is effective for all entities for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2019 (fiscal year 2021 for Woodward), including interim periods within the year of adoption. The amendments on changes in unrealized gains and losses, the range and weighted average of significant unobservable inputs used to develop Level 3 fair value measurements, and the narrative description of measurement uncertainty should be applied prospectively for only the most recent interim or annual period presented in the initial fiscal year of adoption. All other amendments should be applied retrospectively to all periods presented upon their effective date. Early adoption is permitted for any eliminated or modified disclosures prescribed by the ASU. Woodward early adopted ASU 2018-13 in the fourth quarter of fiscal year 2018 and it had no impact on its fair value measurement disclosures. In March 2018, the FASB issued ASU 2018-05, “Amendments to SEC Paragraphs Pursuant to SEC Staff Accounting Bulletin No. 118.” ASU 2018-05 formally amended ASC Topic 740, Income Taxes (“ASC 740”) for the guidance previously provided by SEC Staff Accounting Bulletin 118 (“SAB 118”). SAB 118 expressed views of the SEC regarding ASC 740 in the reporting period that includes the enactment date of H.R.1, “An Act to Provide for Reconciliation Pursuant to Titles II and V of the Concurrent Resolution on the Budget for Fiscal Year 2018” (the “Tax Act”) (previously known as “The Tax Cuts and Jobs Act”). The Company adopted SAB 118 in the first quarter of fiscal year 2018 and therefore, the Company’s subsequent adoption of ASU 2018-05 in the second quarter of fiscal year 2018 had no impact on its accounting for income taxes in fiscal year 2018. In February 2018, the FASB issued ASU 2018-02, “Reporting Comprehensive Income (Topic 220): Reclassification of Certain Tax Effects from Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income.” ASU 2018-02 allows a reclassification from accumulated other comprehensive income to retained earnings for stranded tax effects resulting from the enactment of tax reform under the Tax Act and provides guidance on the disclosure requirements regarding the stranded tax effects. The amendments in ASU 2018-02 are effective for all entities for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2018, and interim periods within those fiscal years. Early adoption is permitted. The amendments in ASU 2018-02 may be applied retrospectively in the period of adoption to all periods in which the effect of the change in the U.S. federal corporate income tax rate in the Tax Act is recognized or may be applied as of the beginning of the period of adoption. Woodward is currently assessing the impact of the adoption of the new guidance and has not yet elected the method of adoption it will apply. When adopted, if Woodward elects to reclassify under ASU 2018-02, a portion of accumulated other comprehensive earnings would be reclassified to retained earnings. In August 2017, the FASB issued ASU 2017-12, “Derivatives and Hedging (Topic 815): Targeted Improvements to Accounting for Hedging Activities.” ASU 2017-12 is intended to more closely align the financial statement reporting of hedging relationships with the economic results of an entity’s risk management activities and to make certain targeted improvements to simplify the application of hedge accounting guidance in current U.S. GAAP. ASU 2017-12 is also intended to increase standardization of financial statement disclosures including requiring a tabular disclosure of the income statement effects of fair value and cash flow hedges. Woodward early adopted the new guidance in the first quarter of fiscal year 2018. Initial application of the new guidance did not have any impact on Woodward’s hedging arrangements or on the disclosures related to such arrangements as of the date of adoption and through the second quarter of fiscal year 2018. In the third quarter of fiscal year 2018, Woodward entered into new hedging arrangements and incorporated the provisions of this guidance in those hedging arrangements and related disclosures as discussed in Note 7, Derivative instruments and hedging activities . In March 2017, the FASB issued ASU 2017-07, “Compensation – Retirement Benefits (Topic 715): Improving the Presentation of Net Periodic Pension Cost and Net Periodic Postretirement Benefit Cost.” ASU 2017-07 requires that the service cost component of net periodic benefit costs from defined benefit and other postretirement benefit plans be included in the same statement of earnings captions as other compensation costs arising from services rendered by the covered employees during the period. The other components of net benefit cost will be presented in the statement of earnings separately from service costs. ASU 2017-07 is effective for fiscal years beginning after December 31, 2017 (fiscal year 2019 for Woodward). Following adoption, only service costs will be eligible for capitalization into manufactured inventories, which should reduce diversity in practice. The amendments of ASU 2017-07 should be applied retrospectively for the presentation of the service cost component and the other components of net periodic benefit costs from defined benefit and other postretirement benefit plans in the statement of earnings and prospectively, on and after the effective date, for the capitalization of the service cost component into manufactured inventories. Woodward will adopt the new guidance in fiscal year 2019, and expects it to have no impact on net earnings. In November 2016, the FASB issued ASU 2016-18, “Statement of Cash Flows (Topic 230): Restricted Cash (a consensus of the FASB Emerging Issues Task Force).” ASU 2016-18 provides authoritative guidance requiring that restricted cash be included with cash and cash equivalents when reconciling the beginning of period and end of period amounts reported in the statement of cash flows. The guidance is applied retrospectively to all periods presented and is effective for annual reporting periods beginning after December 15, 2017 (fiscal year 2019 for Woodward), and interim periods within those annual periods. In the third quarter of fiscal year 2018, the Company’s Consolidated Balance Sheet included restricted cash, and as a result, the Company concurrently early adopted this guidance in the third quarter of fiscal year 2018. As a result of the adoption, the Company has included restricted cash of $3,635 as of September 30, 2018 in the end of year amount reported in the statement of cash flows for the fiscal year ended September 30, 2018. There was no restricted cash in the beginning of year balance for the fiscal year ended September 30, 2018, or in the beginning of year or end of year balances for both the fiscal years ended September 30, 2017 and September 30, 2016. In October 2016, the FASB issued ASU 2016-16, “Accounting for Income Taxes: Intra-Entity Asset Transfers of Assets Other than Inventory.” ASU 2016-16 eliminates the current U.S. GAAP exception deferring the tax effects of intercompany asset transfers (other than inventory) until the transferred asset is sold to a third party or otherwise recovered through use. After adoption of ASU 2016-16, Woodward will recognize the tax consequences of intercompany asset transfers in the buyer’s and seller’s tax jurisdictions when the transfer occurs, even though the pre-tax effects of these transactions are eliminated in consolidation. ASU 2016-16 is effective for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2017 (fiscal year 2019 for Woodward), including interim periods within the year of adoption. Woodward will adopt the new guidance in fiscal year 2019. Modified retrospective adoption is required with any cumulative-effect adjustment recorded to retained earnings as of the beginning of the period of adoption. Woodward c urrently anticipates the adoption of ASU 2016-16 will result in balance sheet reclassifications, but based on Woodward’s current transactional activity, such adjustments are not expected to be significant. In June 2016, the FASB issued ASU 2016-13, “Measurement of Credit Losses on Financial Instruments.” ASU 2016-13 adds a current expected credit loss (“CECL”) impairment model to U.S. GAAP that is based on expected losses rather than incurred losses. Modified retrospective adoption is required with any cumulative-effect adjustment recorded to retained earnings as of the beginning of the period of adoption. ASU 2016-13 is effective for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2019 (fiscal year 2021 for Woodward), including interim periods within the year of adoption. Early adoption is permitted for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2018 (fiscal year 2020 for Woodward), including interim periods within those fiscal years. Woodward will adopt the new guidance in fiscal year 2021. Woodward does not expect the application of the CECL impairment model to have a significant impact on Woodward’s allowance for uncollectible amounts for accounts receivable and notes receivable from municipalities. In February 2016, the FASB issued ASU 2016-02, “Leases (Topic 842).” The purpose of ASU 2016-02 is to increase transparency and comparability among organizations by recognizing lease assets and lease liabilities on the balance sheet and disclosing key information about leasing arrangements. In addition, ASU 2016-02 modifies the definition of a lease to clarify that an arrangement contains a lease when such arrangement conveys the right to control the use of an identified asset. ASU 2016-02 is effective for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2018 (fiscal year 2020 for Woodward), including interim periods within the year of adoption. Originally under ASU 2016-02, an organization was required upon adoption to recognize and measure leases beginning in the earliest period presented using a modified retrospective approach and restate the financial statements for all periods presented. In July 2018, the FASB issued ASU 2018-11, which amends ASU 2016-02 to provide organizations with an additional (and optional) transition method whereby it may elect to recognize and measure leases by applying the cumulative impact of adopting ASU 2016-02 to the opening retained earnings balance in the period of adoption, thereby removing the requirement that the financial statements of prior periods be restated. Although early adoption is permitted, Woodward expects to adopt the new guidance in fiscal year 2020. Woodward expects that it will elect to not restate fiscal years 2018 and 2019 and will recognize the cumulative impact of adopting the standard in Woodward’s opening retained earnings for fiscal year 2020, but has not made a final determination on its future adoption method. Woodward is currently assessing the impact this guidance may have on its Consolidated Financial Statements, including which of its existing lease arrangements will be impacted by the new guidance and whether other arrangements not currently classified as leases may become subject to the guidance of ASU 2016-02 . Rent expense for all operating leases in fiscal year 2018, none of which was recognized on the balance sheet, was $8,348 . As of September 30, 2018, future minimum rental payments required under operating leases, none of which were recognized on the balance sheet, were $26,020 . In May 2014, the FASB issued ASU 2014-09, “Revenue from Contracts with Customers” and has subsequently issued several supplemental and/or clarifying ASUs (collectively “ASC 606”). ASC 606 prescribes a single common revenue standard that replaces most existing U.S. GAAP revenue recognition guidance. ASC 606 outlines a five-step model, under which Woodward will recognize revenue as performance obligations within a customer contract are satisfied. ASC 606 is intended to provide more consistent interpretation and application of the principles outlined in the standard across filers in multiple industries and within the same industries compared to current practices, which should improve comparability. Adoption of ASC 606 is required for annual reporting periods beginning after December 15, 2017 (fiscal year 2019 for Woodward), including interim periods within the reporting period. Woodward has determined it will elect to adopt ASC 606 using the cumulative effect transition method with the cumulative effect of initial adoption recognized at the date of initial application. Further, under the cumulative effect transition method, Woodward will disclose the impact of changes to financial statement line items as a result of applying ASC 606 (rather than previous U.S. GAAP) and include an explanation of the reasons for significant changes in periods subsequent to the adoption. Woodward has assessed the impact that the future adoption of ASC 606 will have on its Consolidated Financial Statements by analyzing its current portfolio of customer contracts, including a review of historical accounting policies and practices to identify potential differences in applying the guidance of ASC 606. Woodward has also performed a comprehensive review of its current processes and systems to determine and implement changes required to support the adoption of ASC 606 on October 1, 2018, the first day of Woodward’s fiscal year 2019. As part of this review process, Woodward is implementing new software solutions to support revenue reporting after adoption. Based on Woodward’s review of its customer contracts, Woodward has determined that revenue on the majority of its customer contracts will continue to be recognized at a point in time, generally upon shipment of products, consistent with Woodward’s historical revenue recognition model. Upon adoption of ASC 606, however, Woodward has determined that a significant portion of its revenues from sales of products and services to customers will be recognized over time, rather than at a point in time, due primarily to the terms of certain customer contracts and/or the type of performance obligation being satisfied. As a result of recognizing some revenue over time, various balance sheet line items will be impacted. As such, the adoption of ASC 606 will have an impact on both the timing of revenue recognition and various line items within the Consolidated Balance Sheet. Woodward has concluded that its warranty arrangements with customers are generally assurance-type warranties, rather than service-t ype warranties. Accordingly, Woodward will generally continue to account for warranty related promises to its customers as a guarantee for which a warranty liability is recorded when the related good or service is sold, rather than as a distinct performance obligation accounted for separately from the sale of the underlying good or service . Woodward generally expenses costs as incurred for the engineering and development of new products. Customer funding received for such engineering and development efforts is currently recognized as revenue when earned, with the corresponding costs recognized as cost of sales. ASC 606 requires most customer funding of product engineering and development to be deferred and recognized as revenue as the related products are delivered to the customer. ASC 606 also requires product engineering and development costs to be capitalized as contract fulfillment costs, to the extent recoverable from the deferred customer funding, and subsequently amortized as the related products are delivered to the customer. Therefore, under ASC 606, Woodward expects to record both contract assets and contract liabilities related to such funded engineering and development efforts, which are expected to become material over time. Recognized revenues and research and development costs are both expected to decrease in the year of adoption and for at least several years thereafter, due to the recognition of these contract assets and liabilities. However, recognition of these contract assets and liabilities are expected to have an immaterial impact on pre-tax earnings in future periods. Woodward is still finalizing the calculation of the impact of these changes to its adoption-date retained earnings and various line items within its Consolidated Balance Sheet as of October 1, 2018. In addition, ASC 606 will require more comprehensive disclosures about revenue streams and contracts with customers, including significant judgments required. Woodward is currently implementing changes to its processes for preparing required disclosures and to information systems that support the financial reporting process. Woodward is also evaluating implications to the Company’s system of internal controls, relative to revenue recognition and the related revenue disclosures, which are based on the criteria outlined in the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission’s 2013 Internal Control – Integrated Framework.

Earnings Per Share

Earnings Per Share	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2018
Earnings Per Share
Earnings Per Share	Note 3. Earnings per share Basic earnings per share is computed by dividing net earnings available to common stockholders by the weighted-average number of shares of common stock outstanding for the period. Diluted earnings per share reflects the weighted-average number of shares outstanding after consideration of the dilutive effect of stock options and restricted stock. The following is a reconciliation of net earnings to basic earnings per share and diluted earnings per share:     Year Ended September 30,  2018 2017 2016  Numerator:  Net earnings $ 180,378 $ 200,507 $ 180,838  Denominator:  Basic shares outstanding 61,493 61,366 61,893  Dilutive effect of stock options and restricted stock 2,383 2,146 1,663  Diluted shares outstanding 63,876 63,512 63,556  Income per common share:  Basic earnings per share $ 2.93 $ 3.27 $ 2.92  Diluted earnings per share $ 2.82 $ 3.16 $ 2.85   The following stock option grants were outstanding during the fiscal years ended September 30, 2018, 2017 and 2016, but were excluded from the computation of diluted earnings per share because their inclusion would have been anti-dilutive.     Year Ended September 30,  2018 2017 2016  Options 760 68 -  Weighted-average option price $ 78.72 $ 63.23 $ n/a The weighted-average shares of common stock outstanding for basic and diluted earnings per share included the weighted-average treasury stock shares held for deferred compensation obligations of the following:    Year Ended September 30,  2018 2017 2016  Weighted-average treasury stock shares held for deferred compensation obligations 198 180 171      

Business Acquisitions

Business Acquisitions	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2018
Business Combinations
Business Acquisitions	Note 4. Business acquisition In fiscal year 2018 , the Company, and its wholly-owned subsidiary, Woodward Aken GmbH (collectively, the “Purchasers”), entered into a Share Purchase Agreement (the “L’Orange Agreement”) with MTU Friedrichshafen GmbH (“MTU”) and MTU America Inc. (together with MTU, the “Sellers”), both of which were subsidiaries of Rolls-Royce PLC (“Rolls-Royce”). Pursuant to the L’Orange Agreement, the Purchasers agreed to acquire all of the outstanding shares of stock of L’Orange GmbH, together with its wholly-owned subsidiaries in China and Germany, as well as all of the outstanding equity interests of its affiliate, Fluid Mechanics LLC, and their related operations (collectively, “L’Orange”), for total consideration (including cash consideration and the assumption of certain liabilities) of €700,000 , or approximately $811,000 based on the foreign currency exchange rate as of the date Woodward executed cross currency swaps in connection with the financing of the transaction as described in Note 7, Derivative instruments and hedging activities . The total consideration to be paid is subject to customary post-closing adjustments. The transactions contemplated by the L’Orange Agreement were completed on June 1, 2018 (the “Closing”) and L’Orange became a subsidiary of the Company. Following the Closing, L’Orange was renamed Woodward L’Orange. L’Orange is a supplier of fuel injection systems for industrial diesel, heavy fuel oil and dual-fuel engines. L’Orange supplies fuel injection technology for engines that power a wide range of industrial applications including marine power and propulsion systems, special-application off road vehicles, locomotives, oil and gas processing, and power generation. L’Orange serves many large specialist diesel engine manufacturers, including Rolls-Royce Power Systems’ subsidiaries, MTU and Bergen Engines, and other low to high speed engine builders. L’Orange has been integrated into the Company’s Industrial segment. In connection with the Closing, MTU and a subsidiary of Rolls-Royce, and L’Orange, entered into a long-term supply agreement, dated June 1, 2018 (the “LTSA”). Pursuant to the terms of the LTSA, L’Orange will continue to supply to MTU and its affiliates within Rolls-Royce certain liquid fuel injection systems, injectors, pumps and other associated parts and components for industrial diesel, heavy fuel oil and dual-fuel engines in a manner consistent with the supply of such products prior to the transaction. The LTSA has an initial term that extends through December 31, 2032. During the term of the LTSA, MTU will continue to purchase certain of these products exclusively from L’Orange, subject to certain limitations specified therein, at pricing negotiated at arms-length. ASC Topic 805, “Business Combinations” (“ASC 805”), provides a framework to account for acquisition transactions under U.S. GAAP. The preliminary purchase price of L’Orange, prepared consistent with the required ASC 805 framework, is allocated as follows:   Cash paid to Sellers $ 780,401  Less acquired cash and restricted cash (9,286)  Total purchase price $ 771,115 The cash consideration was financed through the use of cash on hand, the issuance of an aggregate principal amount of $400,000 of senior unsecured notes in a series of private placement transactions and $167,420 borrowed under Woodward’s existing revolving credit agreement (see Note 13, Credit Facilities, short-term borrowings and long-term debt ). In connection with these borrowings, the Company entered into cross currency swap transactions, which effectively lowered the interest rate on each tranche of the senior unsecured notes and the borrowings under the existing revolving credit agreement (see Note 7, Derivative instruments and hedging activities ). The allocation of the purchase price to the assets acquired and liabilities assumed was accounted for under the purchase method of accounting in accordance with ASC 805. Assets acquired and liabilities assumed in the transaction were recorded at their estimated acquisition date fair values, while transaction costs associated with the acquisition were expensed as incurred. Woodward’s preliminary allocation was based on an evaluation of the appropriate fair values and represents management’s best estimate based on available data. Due to the timing of the transaction, Woodward is in the process of finalizing valuations of current assets, property, plant and equipment (including estimated useful lives), goodwill, intangible assets (including estimated useful lives), and all current and noncurrent liabilities other than the valuation of the pension obligation, the valuation of which is complete. Additionally, Woodward is finalizing the projected combined future tax rate to be applied to the valuation of assets, which could impact the valuation of goodwill and intangible assets. The final determination of the fair value of assets and liabilities will be completed within the one year measurement period as allowed by ASC 805. The following table, which is preliminary and subject to change, summarizes the estimated fair values of the assets acquired and liabilities assumed at the Closing. Any potential adjustments will be made retroactively and could be material to the preliminary values presented below.     Accounts receivable $ 26,538  Inventories (1) 72,392  Other current assets 1,385  Property, plant, and equipment 89,772  Goodwill 257,447  Intangible assets 573,427  Total assets acquired 1,020,961  Other current liabilities 41,997  Deferred income tax liabilities 166,927  Other noncurrent liabilities 40,922  Total liabilities assumed 249,846  Net assets acquired $ 771,115 (1) Inventories include a $16,324 adjustment to state work in progress and finished goods inventories at their fair value as of the acquisition date. The entire inventory fair value adjustment was recognized as a non-cash increase to cost of goods sold ratably over the estimated inventory turnover period during the year ending September 30, 2018 . In connection with the acquisition of L’Orange, Woodward assumed the defined benefit pension obligations of the L’Orange defined benefit pension plans (see Note 18, Retirement benefits ). As of June 1, 2018, the total liability recognized by the Company associated with the L’Orange defined benefit pension plans was $39,257 , of which $1,143 was considered current. As summary of the intangible assets acquired, weighted-average useful lives, and amortization methods follows:     Estimated Amounts Weighted-Average Useful Life Amortization Method  Intangible assets with finite lives:  Customer relationships and contracts $ 388,705 22 years Straight-line  Process technology 74,260 22 years Straight-line  Backlog 42,932 1 year Accelerated  Other 232 3 years Straight-line  Intangible asset with indefinite life:  Trade name 67,298 Indefinite Not amortized  Total $ 573,427  For the fiscal year ended September 30, 2018, Woodward recorded amortization expense associated with the acquired intangibles of $19,753 . Future amortization expense associated with the acquired intangibles as of September 30, 2018 is expected to be:     Year Ending September 30:  2019 $ 36,046  2020 19,900  2021 22,920  2022 22,868  2023 22,868  Thereafter 362,089  $ 486,691  The preliminary purchase price allocation resulted in the recognition of $257,447 of goodwill. Only the portion of goodwill which relates to the U.S. operations of L’Orange is expected to be deductible for tax purposes. The Company has included all of the goodwill in its Industrial segment. The goodwill represents the estimated value of potential expansion with new customers, the opportunity to further develop sales opportunities with new customers, other synergies including supply chain savings expected to be achieved through the integration of L’Orange with Woodward’s Industrial segment, and intangible assets that do not qualify for separate recognition, such as value of the assembled L’Orange workforce that is not included within the estimated value of the acquired backlog and customer relationship intangible assets. Pro forma results for Woodward giving effect to the L’Orange acquisition The following unaudited pro forma financial information presents the combined results of operations of Woodward and L’Orange as if the acquisition had been completed as of the beginning of the prior fiscal year, or October 1, 2016. The unaudited pro forma financial information is presented for informational purposes and is not indicative of the results of operations that would have been achieved if the acquisition and related borrowings had taken place on October 1, 2016, nor are they indicative of future results. The unaudited pro forma financial information for the year ended September 30, 2018 includes Woodward’s results, including the post-acquisition results of L’Orange, since June 1, 2018, and the pre-acquisition results of L’Orange for that period. The unaudited pro forma financial information for the year ended September 30, 2017 combines Woodward’s results with the pre-acquisition results of L’Orange for that period. Prior to the L’Orange acquisition by Woodward, L’Orange was a wholly owned subsidiary of Rolls-Royce, and as such was not a standalone entity for financial reporting purposes. Accordingly, the historical operating results of L’Orange may not be indicative of the results that might have been achieved, historically or in the future, if L’Orange had been a standalone entity. The unaudited pro forma results for the years ended September 30, 2018 and September 30, 2017 follow:      Year Ended Year Ended  September 30, 2018 September 30, 2017  As reported Pro forma As reported Pro forma  Net sales $ 2,325,873 $ 2,549,874 $ 2,098,685 $ 2,380,572  Net earnings 180,378 221,193 200,507 173,962  Earnings per share:  Basic earnings per share $ 2.93 $ 3.60 $ 3.27 $ 2.83  Diluted earnings per share 2.82 3.46 3.16 2.74 The unaudited pro forma results for all periods presented include adjustments made to account for certain costs and transactions that would have been incurred had the acquisition been completed as of October 1, 2016, including amortization charges for acquired intangible assets, eliminations of intercompany transactions, adjustments for acquisition transaction costs, adjustments for depreciation expense for property, plant, and equipment, and adjustments to interest expense. These adjustments are net of any applicable tax impact and were included to arrive at the pro forma results above.  L’Orange’s operating results have been included in the Company’s operating results for the periods subsequent to the completion of the acquisition on June 1, 2018. L’Orange contributed net sales of $102,905 for the year ended September 30, 2018 and a net loss before income taxes of $9,334 for the year ended September 30, 2018. Woodward incurred transaction-related costs of $12,886 for the year ended September 30, 2018, which are included in “Selling, general and administrative expenses” in the Consolidated Statements of Earnings. These transaction-related costs consisted of the L’Orange acquisition transaction and integration costs, warranty and indemnity insurance costs, and German real estate transfer tax costs. Woodward incurred acquisition financing related costs of $4,904 for year ended September 30, 2018, which are included in “Interest expense” in the Consolidated Statements of Earnings. Included in other expense (income), net for the year ended September 30, 2018 was the cost of $5,543 related to an at-the-money-forward option (the “Forward Option”) entered into by the Company on April 18, 2018. The Forward Option, which was entered into to manage the Company’s exposure to fluctuations in the Euro prior to the anticipated close of the L’Orange Agreement, was not exercised by the Company and expired on June 1, 2018.

Joint Venture

Joint Venture	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2018
Equity Method Investments and Joint Ventures [Abstract]
Joint Venture	Note 5. Joint venture On January 4, 2016 , Woodward and General Electric Company (“GE”), acting through its GE Aviation business unit, consummated the formation of a strategic joint venture between Woodward and GE (the “JV”) to develop, manufacture and support fuel systems for specified existing and all future GE commercial aircraft engines that produce thrust in excess of fifty thousand pounds. As part of the JV formation, Woodward contributed to the JV certain contractual rights and intellectual property applicable to the existing GE commercial aircraft engine programs within the scope of the JV. Woodward had no initial cost basis in the JV because Woodward had no cost basis in the contractual rights and intellectual property contributed to the JV. GE purchased from Woodward a 50% ownership interest in the JV for a $250,000 cash payment to Woodward. In addition, GE will pay contingent consideration to Woodward consisting of fifteen annual payments of $4,894 per year, which began on January 4, 2017, subject to certain claw-back conditions. Woodward received annual payments of $4,894 during the second quarter of each of the fiscal years ended September 30, 2018 and September 30, 2017, which were recorded as deferred income and included in Net cash provided by operating activities under the caption “Other” on the Consolidated Statement of Cash Flows . Neither Woodward nor GE contributed any tangible assets to the JV. Woodward determined that the JV formation was not the culmination of an earnings event because Woodward has significant performance obligations to support the future operations of the JV. Therefore, Woodward recorded as deferred income the $250,000 consideration received from GE in January of 2016 for its purchase of a 50% equity interest in the JV. The $250,000 deferred income will be recognized as an increase to net sales in proportion to revenue realized on sales of applicable fuel systems within the scope of the JV in a particular period as a percentage of total revenue expected to be realized by Woodward over the estimated remaining lives of the underlying commercial aircraft engine programs assigned to the JV. Unamortized deferred income recorded in connection with the JV formation included accrued liabilities of $7,087 as of September 30, 2018 and $6,451 as of September 30, 2017, and other liabilities of $235,300 as of September 30, 2018 and $236,896 as of September 30, 2017. Amortization of the deferred income recognized as an increase to sales was $5,854 for the twelve months ended September 30, 2018, $6,286 for the twelve months ended September 30, 2017, and $5,261 for the nine-months ended September 30, 2016. Woodward and GE jointly manage the JV and any significant decisions and/or actions of the JV require the mutual consent of both parties. Neither Woodward nor GE has a controlling financial interest in the JV, but both Woodward and GE do have the ability to significantly influence the operating and financial decisions of the JV. Therefore, Woodward is accounting for its 50% ownership interest in the JV using the equity method of accounting. The JV is a related party to Woodward. Other income includes income of $3,339 for the fiscal year ended September 30, 2018, income of $2,568 for the fiscal year ended September 30, 2017, and income of $6,204 for the nine-months ended September 30, 2016 related to Woodward’s equity interest in the earnings of the JV. Woodward received no cash distributions from the JV during the fiscal years ended September 30, 2018 and September 30, 2016, compared to a $2,500 cash distribution from the JV during the fiscal year ended September 30, 2017, which was included in Net cash provided by operating activities under the caption “Other” on the Consolidated Statement of Cash Flows. Woodward’s net investment in the JV, which is included in other assets, was $9,611 as of September 30, 2018 and $6,272 as of September 30, 2017. Woodward’s net sales include $72,511 for the fiscal year ended September 30, 2018 of sales to the JV, compared to $70,234 for the fiscal year ended September 30, 2017 and $46,973 for the nine-months ended September 30, 2016. Woodward recorded a reduction to sales of $26,023 for the fiscal year ended September 30, 2018 related to royalties paid to the JV by Woodward on sales by Woodward directly to third party aftermarket customers, compared to $26,133 for the fiscal year ended September 30, 2017 and $21,391 for the nine-months ended September 30, 2016. The Consolidated Balance Sheets include “Accounts receivable” of $10,499 at September 30, 2018, and $8,554 at September 30, 2017, related to amounts the JV owed Woodward, and include “Accounts payable” of $2,944 at September 30, 2018, and $6,741 at September 30, 2017, related to amounts Woodward owed the JV.

Financial Instruments and Fair

Financial Instruments and Fair Value Measurements	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2018
Financial Instruments and Fair Value Measurments
Financial Instruments and Fair Value Measurements	Note 6. Financial instruments and fair value measurements Financial assets and liabilities recorded at fair value in the Consolidated Balance Sheets are categorized based upon a fair value hierarchy established by U.S. GAAP. The table below presents information about Woodward’s financial assets and liabilities that are measured at fair value on a recurring basis and indicates the fair value hierarchy of the valuation techniques Woodward utilized to determine such fair value.      At September 30, 2018 At September 30, 2017  Level 1 Level 2 Level 3 Total Level 1 Level 2 Level 3 Total  Financial assets:  Cash $ 59,838 $ - $ - $ 59,838 $ 79,822 $ - $ - $ 79,822  Investments in reverse repurchase agreements 4,582 - - 4,582 1 - - 1  Investments in term deposits with foreign banks 19,174 - - 19,174 7,729 - - 7,729  Equity securities 19,730 - - 19,730 16,600 - - 16,600  Total financial assets $ 103,324 $ - $ - $ 103,324 $ 104,152 $ - $ - $ 104,152   Financial liabilities:  Cross currency interest rate swaps $ - $ 23,000 $ - $ 23,000 $ - $ - $ - $ -  Total financial liabilities $ - $ 23,000 $ - $ 23,000 $ - $ - $ - $ -  Investments in reverse repurchase agreements: Woodward sometimes invests excess cash in reverse repurchase agreements. Under the terms of Woodward’s reverse repurchase agreements, Woodward purchases an interest in a pool of securities and is granted a security interest in those securities by the counterparty to the reverse repurchase agreement. At an agreed upon date, generally the next business day, the counterparty repurchases Woodward’s interest in the pool of securities at a price equal to what Woodward paid to the counterparty plus a rate of return determined daily per the terms of the reverse repurchase agreement. Woodward believes that the investments in these reverse repurchase agreements are with creditworthy financial institutions and that the funds invested are highly liquid. The investments in reverse repurchase agreements are reported at fair value, with realized gains from interest income recognized in earnings, and are included in “Cash and cash equivalents” in the Consolidated Balance Sheets. Since the investments are generally overnight, the carrying value is considered to be equal to the fair value as the amount is deemed to be a cash deposit with no risk of change in value as of the end of each fiscal quarter. Investments in term deposits with foreign banks: Woodward’s foreign subsidiaries sometimes invest excess cash in various highly liquid financial instruments that Woodward believes are with creditworthy financial institutions. Such investments are reported in “Cash and cash equivalents” at fair value, with realized gains from interest income recognized in earnings. The carrying value of Woodward’s investments in term deposits with foreign banks are considered equal to the fair value given the highly liquid nature of the investments. As of September 30, 2018, $3,635 of the term deposits with foreign banks are restricted in use as they are pledged collateral for short-term borrowings. The restriction will lapse when the related short-term borrowings are paid. Equity securities: Woodward holds marketable equity securities, through investments in various mutual funds, related to its deferred compensation program. Based on Woodward’s intentions regarding these instruments, marketable equity securities are classified as trading securities. The trading securities are reported at fair value, with realized gains and losses recognized in “Other expense (income), net” on the Consolidated Statements of Earnings. The trading securities are included in “Other assets” in the Consolidated Balance Sheets. The fair values of Woodward’s trading securities are based on the quoted market prices for the net asset value of the various mutual funds. Cross currency interest rate swaps: Woodward holds cross currency interest rate swaps, which are accounted for at fair value. The swaps are included in “Other liabilities” in the Consolidated Balance Sheets. The fair values of Woodward’s cross currency interest rate swaps are determined using a market approach that is based on observable inputs other than quoted market prices, including contract terms, interest rates, currency rates, and other market factors. Accounts receivable, accounts payable, and short-term borrowings are not remeasured to fair value, as the carrying cost of each approximates its respective fair value. The estimated fair values and carrying costs of other financial instruments that are not required to be remeasured at fair value in the Consolidated Balance Sheets were as follows:       At September 30, 2018 At September 30, 2017  Fair Value Hierarchy Level Estimated Fair Value Carrying Cost Estimated Fair Value Carrying Cost  Assets:  Notes receivable from municipalities 2 $ 13,458 $ 13,462 $ 15,848 $ 14,507  Investments in short-term time deposits 2 8,883 8,874 8,227 8,223  Liabilities:  Long-term debt 2 $ (1,094,987) $ (1,095,292) $ (592,317) $ (582,080)  In connection with certain economic incentives related to Woodward’s development of a second campus in the greater-Rockford, Illinois area for its Aerospace segment and Woodward’s development of a new campus at its corporate headquarters in Fort Collins, Colorado, Woodward received long-term notes from municipalities within the states of Illinois and Colorado. The fair value of the long-term notes was estimated based on a model that discounted future principal and interest payments received at an interest rate available to the Company at the end of the period for similarly rated municipal notes of similar maturity, which is a level 2 input as defined by the U.S. GAAP fair value hierarchy. The interest rates used to estimate the fair value of the long-term notes were 3.1% at September 30, 2018 and 2.6% at September 30, 2017. From time to time, certain of Woodward’s foreign subsidiaries will invest excess cash in short-term time deposits with a fixed maturity date of longer than three months but less than one year from the date of the deposit. Woodward believes that the investments are with creditworthy financial institutions. The fair value of the investments in short-term time deposits was estimated based on a model that discounted future principal and interest payments to be received at an interest rate available to the foreign subsidiary entering into the investment for similar short-term time deposits of similar maturity. This was determined to be a level 2 input as defined by the U.S. GAAP fair value hierarchy. The interest rates used to estimate the fair value of the short-term time deposits was 6.3% at September 30, 2018 and 5.3% at September 30, 2017. The fair value of long-term debt was estimated based on a model that discounted future principal and interest payments at interest rates available to the Company at the end of the period for similar debt of the same maturity, which is a level 2 input as defined by the U.S. GAAP fair value hierarchy. The weighted-average interest rates used to estimate the fair value of long-term debt were 3.5% at September 30, 2018 and 2.4% at September 30, 2017.

Derivative Instruments and Hedg

Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2018
Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities
Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities	Note 7. Derivative instruments and hedging activities Woodward has exposures related to global market risks, including the effect of changes in interest rates, foreign currency exchange rates, changes in certain commodity prices and fluctuations in various producer indices. From time to time, Woodward enters into derivative instruments for risk management purposes only, including derivatives designated as accounting hedges and/or those utilized as economic hedges. Woodward uses interest rate related derivative instruments to manage its exposure to fluctuations of interest rates. Woodward does not enter into or issue derivatives for trading or speculative purposes. By using derivative and/or hedging instruments to manage its risk exposure, Woodward is subject, from time to time, to credit risk and market risk on those derivative instruments. Credit risk arises from the potential failure of the counterparty to perform under the terms of the derivative and/or hedging instrument. When the fair value of a derivative contract is positive, the counterparty owes Woodward, which creates credit risk for Woodward. Woodward mitigates this credit risk by entering into transactions with only counterparties that are believed to be creditworthy. Market risk arises from the potential adverse effects on the value of derivative and/or hedging instruments that result from a change in interest rates, commodity prices, or foreign currency exchange rates. Woodward minimizes this market risk by establishing and monitoring parameters that limit the types and degree of market risk that may be undertaken. Derivative instruments not designated or qualifying as hedging instruments On April 18, 2018 , the Company entered into a forward option at a cost of $5,543 whereby, on May 30, 2018 , the Company had the ability to exercise its option to purchase €490,000 on June 1, 2018 using U.S. dollars at a fixed exchange rate of 1.2432 (the (“Forward Option”). The Forward Option was entered into to manage the Company’s exposure to fluctuations in the Euro prior to the anticipated close of the L’Orange Agreement. The Company did not enter into the Forward Option for trading or speculative purposes. As the spot rate was below 1.2432 on May 30, 2018, the Company elected not to exercise the option and a loss of $5,543 was recognized on the Forward Option in “Other (income) expense, net” in the Consolidated Statements of Earnings in the fiscal year ended September 30, 2018. The Forward Option expired on June 1, 2018. In May 2018, Woodward entered into cross currency interest rate swap agreements that synthetically convert $167,420 of floating-rate debt under Woodward’s existing revolving credit agreement to Euro denominated floating-rate debt in conjunction with the L’Orange acquisition (the “Floating-Rate Cross Currency Swap”). Also in May 2018, Woodward entered into cross currency interest rate swap agreements that synthetically convert an aggregate principal amount of $400,000 of fixed-rate debt associated with the 2018 Note Purchase Agreement (as defined at Note 13, Credit facilities short-term borrowings and long-term debt ) to Euro denominated fixed-rate debt (the “Fixed-Rate Cross Currency Swaps”). The cross currency interest rate swaps, which effectively reduce the interest rate on the underlying fixed and floating-rate debt under the 2018 Notes (as defined at Note 13, Credit facilities short-term borrowings and long-term debt ) and Woodward’s existing revolving credit agreement, respectively, is recorded as a reduction to “Interest expense” in Woodward’s Consolidated Statements of Earnings. Derivatives instruments in fair value hedging relationships Concurrent with the entry into the Floating-Rate Cross Currency Swap, a corresponding Euro denominated intercompany loan receivable with identical terms and notional amount as the underlying Euro denominated floating-rate debt, with a reciprocal cross currency interest rate swap, was entered into by Woodward Barbados Financing SRL (“Barbados”), a wholly owned subsidiary of Woodward, and is designated as a fair value hedge under the criteria prescribed in ASC Topic 815, Derivatives and Hedging (“ASC 815”). The objective of the derivative instrument is to hedge against the foreign currency exchange risk attributable to the spot remeasurement of the Euro denominated intercompany loan. Only the change in the fair value related to the cross currency basis spread, or excluded component, of the derivative instrument is recognized in accumulated other comprehensive (losses) earnings (“OCI”). The remaining change in the fair value of the derivative instrument is recognized in foreign currency transaction gain or loss included in “Selling, general and administrative costs” in Woodward’s Consolidated Statements of Earnings. The change in the fair value of the derivative instrument in foreign currency transaction gain or loss offsets the change in the spot remeasurement of the intercompany Euro denominated loan. Hedge effectiveness is assessed based on the fair value changes of the derivative instrument, after excluding any fair value changes related to the cross currency basis spread. The initial cost of the cross currency basis spread is recorded in earnings each period through the swap accrual process. There is no credit-risk-related contingent features associated with the floating-rate cross currency interest rate swap. Derivative instruments in cash flow hedging relationships In conjunction with the entry into the Fixed-Rate Cross Currency Swaps, five corresponding intercompany loans receivable, with identical terms and amounts of each tranche of the underlying aggregate principal amount of $400,000 of fixed-rate debt, and reciprocal cross currency interest rate swaps were entered into by Barbados, which are designated as cash flow hedges under the criteria prescribed in ASC 815. The objective of these derivative instruments is to hedge the risk of variability in cash flows attributable to the foreign currency exchange risk of cash flows for future principal and interest payments associated with the Euro denominated intercompany loans over a fifteen year period. Changes in the fair values of the derivative instruments are recognized in accumulated OCI and reclassified to foreign currency transaction gain or loss included in “Selling, general and administrative costs” in Woodward’s Consolidated Statements of Earnings. Reclassifications out of accumulated OCI of the change in fair value occur each reporting period based upon changes in the spot rate remeasurement of the Euro denominated intercompany loans, including associated interest. Hedge effectiveness is assessed based on the fair value changes of the derivative instruments and deemed to be highly effective in offsetting exposure to variability in foreign exchange rates. There are no credit-risk-related contingent features associated with these fixed-rate cross currency interest rate swaps. In June 2013, in connection with Woodward’s expected refinancing of current maturities on its then existing long-term debt, Woodward entered into a treasury lock agreement with a notional amount of $25,000 that qualified as a cash flow hedge under ASC 815. The objective of this derivative instrument was to hedge the risk of variability in cash flows attributable to changes in the designated benchmark interest rate over a seven-year period related to the future principal and interest payments on a portion of anticipated future debt issuances. The treasury lock agreement was terminated in August 2013 and the resulting gain of $507 was recorded as a reduction to accumulated OCI, net of tax, and is being recognized as a decrease to interest expense over a seven-year period. Woodward expects to reclassify $72 of net unrecognized gains on terminated derivative instruments from accumulated OCI to earnings during the next twelve months. In March 2009, Woodward entered into LIBOR lock agreements that qualified as cash flow hedges under authoritative guidance for derivatives and hedging. The objective of this derivative instrument was to hedge the risk of variability in cash flows over a seven-year period related to future interest payments of a portion of anticipated future debt issuances attributable to changes in the designated benchmark interest rate associated with the then expected issuance of long-term debt to acquire HR Textron Inc. (“HRT”). The discontinuance of the LIBOR lock agreements resulted in a loss that was being recognized as an increase of interest expense over a seven-year period on the hedged Series E and F Notes, which were issued on April 3, 2009, using the effective interest method. The unrecognized portion of the loss was recorded in accumulated OCI, net of tax. The unrecognized portion of the loss was fully amortized to interest expense during the second quarter of fiscal year 2016, and as of September 30, 2016 there was no unrecognized loss associated with this cash flow hedge in Woodward’s Consolidated Balance Sheet. Derivatives instruments in net investment hedging relationships On September 23, 2016 , Woodward and Woodward International Holding B.V., a wholly owned subsidiary of Woodward organized under the laws of The Netherlands (the “BV Subsidiary”), each entered into a note purchase agreement (the “2016 Note Purchase Agreement”) relating to the sale by Woodward and the BV Subsidiary of an aggregate principal amount of €160,000 of senior unsecured notes in a series of private placement transactions. Woodward issued €40,000 aggregate principal amount of Woodward’s Series M Senior Notes due September 23, 2026 (the “Series M Notes”). Woodward designated the Series M Notes as a hedge of a foreign currency exposure of Woodward’s net investment in its Euro denominated functional currency subsidiaries. On the Series M Notes, included in foreign currency translation adjustments within total comprehensive (losses) earnings are net foreign exchange gains of $838 for the fiscal year ended September 30, 2018, compared to net foreign exchange losses of $2,395 for the fiscal year ended September 30, 2017 and $47 for the fiscal year ended September 30, 2016. In July 2016, Woodward designated an intercompany loan of 160,000 RMB between two wholly owned subsidiaries as a hedge of a foreign currency exposure of the net investment of the borrower in the lender. In July 2017, the intercompany loan was repaid, resulting in a realized gain of $380 that was recognized within total comprehensive (losses) earnings, of which a gain of $453 was recognized in fiscal year 2017 and a loss of $73 was recognized in fiscal year 2016. In June 2015, Woodward designated an intercompany loan of 160,000 Renminbi (“RMB”) between two wholly owned subsidiaries as a hedge of a foreign currency exposure of the net investment of the borrower in the lender. In June 2016, the intercompany loan was repaid, resulting in a realized gain of $1,484 that was recognized within total comprehensive (losses) earnings, of which $912 was recognized in fiscal year 2016. Impact of derivative instruments designated as qualifying hedging instruments The following table discloses the impact of derivative instruments designated as qualifying hedging instruments on Woodward’s Consolidated Statements of Earnings:     Year ended September 30, 2018  Derivatives in: Location Amount of (Income) Expense Recognized in Earnings on Derivative Amount of (Gain) Loss Recognized in Accumulated OCI on Derivative Amount of (Gain) Loss Reclassified from Accumulated OCI into Earnings  Cross currency interest rate swap agreement designated as fair value hedges Selling, general and administrative expenses $ 472 $ 1,034 $ 472  Cross currency interest rate swap agreements designated as cash flow hedges Selling, general and administrative expenses 1,067 21,966 1,067  Treasury lock agreement designated as cash flow hedge Interest expense (72) - (72)  $ 1,467 $ 23,000 $ 1,467   Year ended September 30, 2017  Derivatives in: Location Amount of (Income) Expense Recognized in Earnings on Derivative Amount of (Gain) Loss Recognized in Accumulated OCI on Derivative Amount of (Gain) Loss Reclassified from Accumulated OCI into Earnings  Treasury lock agreement designated as cash flow hedge Interest expense $ (72) $ - $ (72)  $ (72) $ - $ (72)   Year ended September 30, 2016  Derivatives in: Location Amount of (Income) Expense Recognized in Earnings on Derivative Amount of (Gain) Loss Recognized in Accumulated OCI on Derivative Amount of (Gain) Loss Reclassified from Accumulated OCI into Earnings  Treasury lock agreement designated as cash flow hedge Interest expense $ 21 $ - $ 21  $ 21 $ - $ 21  The remaining unrecognized gains and losses in Woodward’s Consolidated Balance Sheets associated with derivative instruments that were previously entered into by Woodward, which are classified in accumulated OCI were net losses of $21,315 as of September 30, 2018 and net gains of $218 as of September 30, 2017.

Supplemental Statements of Cash

Supplemental Statements of Cash Flows Information	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2018
Supplemental Statements of Cash Flows Information
Supplemental Statements of Cash Flows Information	Note 8. Supplemental statement of cash flows information         Year Ended September 30,  2018 2017 2016  Interest paid, net of amounts capitalized $ 29,677 $ 27,752 $ 34,500  Income taxes paid 44,831 33,926 99,468  Income tax refunds received 1,976 997 2,350  Non-cash activities:  Purchases of property, plant and equipment on account 11,982 17,327 10,705  Property, plant and equipment acquired by capital lease - - 1,653  Common shares issued from treasury to settle employee liabilities - 1,767 -  Common shares issued from treasury to settle benefit obligations (Note 19) 14,741 14,014 13,999  Cashless exercise of stock options - 1,473 753 

Inventories

Inventories	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2018
Inventories
Inventories	Note 9. Inventories     September 30, September 30,  2018 2017  Raw materials $ 80,999 $ 59,034  Work in progress 118,010 103,790  Component parts (1) 298,820 262,755  Finished goods 51,767 47,926  $ 549,596 $ 473,505  (1) Component parts include items that can be sold separately as finished goods or included in the manufacture of other products.

Property, Plant, and Equipment,

Property, Plant, and Equipment, Net	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2018
Property, Plant, and Equipment, Net
Property, Plant and Equipment, Net	Note 10. Property, plant, and equipment      September 30, September 30,  2018 2017  Land and land improvements $ 94,146 $ 88,326  Buildings and building improvements 565,065 514,453  Leasehold improvements 17,954 16,142  Machinery and production equipment 668,986 543,641  Computer equipment and software 124,788 124,723  Office furniture and equipment 31,533 24,308  Other 19,366 19,393  Construction in progress 103,036 111,910  1,624,874 1,442,896  Less accumulated depreciation (564,869) (520,853)  Property, plant, and equipment, net $ 1,060,005 $ 922,043  In the second quarter of fiscal year 2018, the Company announced its decision to relocate its Duarte, California operations to the Company’s newly renovated Drake Campus in Fort Collins, Colorado. The Company has identified assets held for sale with a carrying value of $8,306 at September 30, 2018, the majority of which are included in “Land and land improvements” and “Buildings and buildings improvements” which relate to the land, building and building improvements, and other assets at the Duarte facility. The assets held for sale are included in the Company’s Aerospace segment. The Company had no assets held for sale recorded as of September 30, 2017. The carrying value of the remaining assets at the Duarte facility was approximately $2,600 as of September 30, 2018, of which the Company has identified approximately $650 that is planned to be disposed of as a result of the relocation. The Company assessed whether the decision to relocate from its Duarte facility could indicate a potential impairment of the assets at the Duarte facility and concluded that the assets were not impaired as of September 30, 2018. Included in “Office furniture and equipment” and “Other” is $1,650 at September 30, 2018 and $1,653 at September 30, 2017, of gross assets acquired on capital leases, and accumulated depreciation included $1,158 at September 30, 2018 and $739 at September 30, 2017 of amortization associated with the capital lease assets. In fiscal year 2015, Woodward completed and placed into service a manufacturing and office building on a second campus in the greater-Rockford, Illinois area and has occupied the new facility for its Aerospace segment. This campus is intended to support Woodward’s expected growth in its Aerospace segment as a result of Woodward being awarded a substantial number of new system platforms, particularly on narrow-body aircraft. Included in “Construction in progress” are costs of $32,248 at September 30, 2018 and $49,347 at September 30, 2017 associated with new equipment purchases for the greater-Rockford, Illinois campus and costs of $3,967 at September 30, 2018 and $15,584 at September 30, 2017 associated with the renovation of the Drake Campus. For the fiscal years ended September 30, 2018, 2017, and 2016, Woodward had depreciation expense as follows:     Year Ended September 30,  2018 2017 2016  Depreciation expense $ 71,389 $ 55,140 $ 41,550  For the fiscal years ended September 30, 2018, 2017, and 2016, Woodward capitalized interest that would have otherwise been included in interest expense of the following:     Year Ended September 30,  2018 2017 2016  Capitalized interest $ 2,187 $ 2,008 $ 5,455 

Goodwill

Goodwill	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2018
Goodwill Disclosure
Goodwill	 Note 11. Goodwill      September 30, 2017 Additions Effects of Foreign Currency Translation September 30, 2018  Aerospace $ 455,423 $ - $ - $ 455,423  Industrial 101,122 257,447 (742) 357,827  Consolidated $ 556,545 $ 257,447 $ (742) $ 813,250   September 30, 2016 Additions Effects of Foreign Currency Translation September 30, 2017  Aerospace $ 455,423 $ - $ - $ 455,423  Industrial 100,261 - 861 101,122  Consolidated $ 555,684 $ - $ 861 $ 556,545 On June 1, 2018, Woodward completed the acquisition of L’Orange (see Note 4, Business acquisition ), which resulted in the recognition of $257,447 in goodwill in the Company’s Industrial segment. Woodward tests goodwill for impairment at the reporting unit level on an annual basis and more often if an event occurs or circumstances change that would more likely than not reduce the fair value of a reporting unit below its carrying amount. Woodward completed its annual goodwill impairment test as of July 31, 2018 during the quarter ended September 30, 2018. At that date, Woodward determined it was appropriate to aggregate certain components of the same operating segment into a single reporting unit. The fair value of each of Woodward’s reporting units was determined using a discounted cash flow method. This method represents a level 3 input and incorporates various estimates and assumptions, the most significant being projected revenue growth rates, earnings margins, future tax rates, and the present value, based on an estimated weighted-average cost of capital (or the discount rate) and terminal growth rate, of forecasted cash flows. Management projects revenue growth rates, earnings margins and cash flows based on each reporting unit’s current operational results, expected performance and operational strategies over a ten-year period. These projections are adjusted to reflect current economic conditions and demand for certain products, and require considerable management judgment. Forecasted cash flows used in the July 31, 2018 impairment test were discounted using weighted-average cost of capital assumptions ranging from 9.83% to 12.76% . The terminal values of the forecasted cash flows were calculated using the Gordon Growth Model and assumed an annual compound growth rate after ten years of 3.32% . These inputs, which are unobservable in the market, represent management’s best estimate of what market participants would use in determining the present value of the Company’s forecasted cash flows. Changes in these estimates and assumptions can have a significant impact on the fair value of forecasted cash flows. Woodward evaluated the reasonableness of the reporting units’ resulting fair values utilizing a market multiple method. The results of Woodward’s goodwill impairment tests performed as of July 31, 2018 did not indicate impairment of any of Woodward’s reporting units.

Intangible Assets, Net

Intangible Assets, Net	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2018
Intangible Assets, Net
Intangible Assets, Net	Note 12. Intangible assets, net     September 30, 2018 September 30, 2017  Gross Carrying Value Accumulated Amortization Net Carrying Amount Gross Carrying Value Accumulated Amortization Net Carrying Amount  Intangible assets with finite lives:  Customer relationships and contracts:  Aerospace $ 281,683 $ (166,719) $ 114,964 $ 282,225 $ (151,155) $ 131,070  Industrial 429,880 (35,856) 394,024 40,962 (34,407) 6,555  Total $ 711,563 $ (202,575) $ 508,988 $ 323,187 $ (185,562) $ 137,625   Intellectual property:  Aerospace $ - $ - $ - $ - $ - $ -  Industrial 19,448 (18,587) 861 19,422 (18,196) 1,226  Total $ 19,448 $ (18,587) $ 861 $ 19,422 $ (18,196) $ 1,226   Process technology:  Aerospace $ 76,372 $ (54,874) $ 21,498 $ 76,605 $ (49,124) $ 27,481  Industrial 97,154 (20,373) 76,781 22,950 (17,756) 5,194  Total $ 173,526 $ (75,247) $ 98,279 $ 99,555 $ (66,880) $ 32,675   Backlog:  Aerospace $ - $ - $ - $ - $ - $ -  Industrial 42,955 (18,006) 24,949 - - -  Total $ 42,955 $ (18,006) $ 24,949 $ - $ - $ -   Other intangibles:  Aerospace $ - $ - $ - $ - $ - $ -  Industrial 1,629 (1,158) 471 1,312 (956) 356  Total $ 1,629 $ (1,158) $ 471 $ 1,312 $ (956) $ 356   Intangible asset with indefinite life:  Tradename:  Aerospace $ - $ - $ - $ - $ - $ -  Industrial 67,335 - 67,335 - - -  Total $ 67,335 $ - $ 67,335 $ - $ - $ -   Total intangibles:  Aerospace $ 358,055 $ (221,593) $ 136,462 $ 358,830 $ (200,279) $ 158,551  Industrial 658,401 (93,980) 564,421 84,646 (71,315) 13,331  Consolidated Total $ 1,016,456 $ (315,573) $ 700,883 $ 443,476 $ (271,594) $ 171,882 For the fiscal years ended September 30, 2018, 2017, and 2016, Woodward recorded amortization expense associated with intangibles of the following:     Year Ended September 30,  2018 2017 2016  Amortization expense $ 44,742 $ 25,777 $ 27,486   Future amortization expense associated with intangibles is expected to be:           Year Ending September 30:  2019 $ 59,187  2020 40,266  2021 41,320  2022 39,114  2023 38,056  Thereafter 415,605  $ 633,548  

Credit Facilities, Short-term B

Credit Facilities, Short-term Borrowings and Long-term Debt	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2018
Debt Disclosure
Credit Facilities, Short-term Borrowings and Long-term Debt	Note 13. Credit facilities, short-term borrowings and long-term debt As of September 30, 2018, Woodward’s short-term borrowings and availability under its various short-term credit facilities follows:     Total availability Outstanding letters of credit and guarantees Outstanding borrowings Remaining availability  Revolving credit facility $ 1,000,000 $ (11,484) $ (266,541) $ 721,975  Foreign lines of credit and overdraft facilities 7,440 - - 7,440  Foreign performance guarantee facilities 1,783 (1,536) - 247  Other short-term borrowings 3,635 - (3,635) -  $ 1,012,858 $ (13,020) $ (270,176) $ 729,662 Revolving credit facility Woodward maintains a $1,000,000 revolving credit facility established under a revolving credit agreement among Woodward, a syndicate of lenders and Wells Fargo Bank, National Association, as administrative agent (the “Revolving Credit Agreement”). The Revolving Credit Agreement provides for the option to increase available borrowings up to $1,200,000 , subject to lenders’ participation. Borrowings under the Revolving Credit Agreement can be made by Woodward and certain of its foreign subsidiaries in U.S dollars or in foreign currencies other than the U.S. dollar and generally bear interest at LIBOR plus 0.85% to 1.65% . The Revolving Credit Agreement matures in April 2020 . Under the Revolving Credit Agreement, there were $266,541 in principal amount of borrowings outstanding as of September 30, 2018, at an effective interest rate of 3.48% , and $32,600 in principal amount of borrowings outstanding as of September 30, 2017, at an effective interest rate of 2.29% . As of September 30, 2018 , $150,000 of the borrowings under the Revolving Credit Agreement were classified as short-term borrowings based on Woodward’s intent and ability to pay this amount in the next twelve months. As of September 30, 2017, all of the borrowings under the Revolving Credit Agreement were classified as short-term borrowings. The Revolving Credit Agreement contains certain covenants customary with such agreements, which are generally consistent with the covenants applicable to Woodward’s long-term debt agreements, and contains customary events of default, including certain cross default provisions related to Woodward’s other outstanding debt arrangements in excess of $60,000 , the occurrence of which would permit the lenders to accelerate the amounts due thereunder. In addition, the Revolving Credit Agreement includes the following financial covenants: (i) a maximum permitted leverage ratio of consolidated net debt to consolidated earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation, stock-based compensation, and amortization, plus any usual non-cash charges to the extent deducted in computing net income minus any usual non-cash gains to the extent added in computing net income (“Leverage Ratio”) for Woodward and its consolidated subsidiaries of 3.5 to 1.0, which ratio, subject to certain restrictions, may increase to 4.0 to 1.0 for the fiscal quarter (and the immediately following fiscal quarter) during which a permitted acquisition occurs and to 3.75 to 1.0 for the following two succeeding fiscal quarters, and (ii) a minimum consolidated net worth of $800,000 plus (a) 50% of Woodward’s positive net income for the prior fiscal year and (b) 50% of Woodward’s net cash proceeds resulting from certain issuances of stock, subject to certain adjustments. Woodward’s obligations under the Revolving Credit Agreement are guaranteed by Woodward FST, Inc., Woodward MPC, Inc., and Woodward HRT, Inc., each of which is a wholly owned subsidiary of Woodward. Short-term borrowings Woodward has other foreign lines of credit and foreign overdraft facilities at various financial institutions, which are generally reviewed annually for renewal and are subject to the usual terms and conditions applied by the financial institutions. Pursuant to the terms of the related facility agreements, Woodward’s foreign performance guarantee facilities are limited in use to providing performance guarantees to third parties. T here were no borrowings outstanding on Woodward’s foreign lines of credit and foreign overdraft facilities as of both September 30, 2018 and 2017. Woodward had other short-term borrowings of $3,635 as of September 30, 2018, which are expected to be paid within 12 months. Woodward had no other short-term borrowings as of September 30, 2017. Long-term debt     September 30, September 30,  2018 2017  Long-term portion of revolving credit facility - Floating rate (LIBOR plus 0.85% - 1.65%), due April 2020; unsecured $ 116,541 $ -  Series D notes – 6.39%, due October 2018; unsecured 100,000 100,000  Series F notes – 8.24%, due April 2019; unsecured 43,000 43,000  Series G notes – 3.42%, due November 2020; unsecured 50,000 50,000  Series H notes – 4.03%, due November 2023; unsecured 25,000 25,000  Series I notes – 4.18%, due November 2025; unsecured 25,000 25,000  Series J notes – Floating rate (LIBOR plus 1.25%), due November 2020; unsecured 50,000 50,000  Series K notes – 4.03%, due November 2023; unsecured 50,000 50,000  Series L notes – 4.18%, due November 2025; unsecured 50,000 50,000  Series M notes – 1.12% due September 2026; unsecured 46,437 47,270  Series N notes – 1.31% due September 2028; unsecured 89,393 90,995  Series O notes – 1.57% due September 2031; unsecured 49,921 50,815  Series P notes – 4.27% due May 2025; unsecured 85,000 -  Series Q notes – 4.35% due May 2027; unsecured 85,000 -  Series R notes – 4.41% due May 2029; unsecured 75,000 -  Series S notes – 4.46% due May 2030; unsecured 75,000 -  Series T notes – 4.61% due May 2033; unsecured 80,000 -  Unamortized debt issuance costs (2,895) (1,794)  Total long-term debt 1,092,397 580,286  Less: Current portion of long-term debt - -  Long-term debt, less current portion $ 1,092,397 $ 580,286 The Notes In October 2008 , Woodward entered into a note purchase agreement relating to the Series D Notes, due in October 2018. On October 1, 2018, Woodward paid the entire principal balance of $100,000 on the Series D Notes using proceeds from borrowings under its existing revolving credit facility. In April 2009 , Woodward entered into a note purchase agreement relating to the Series F Notes. The Series F Notes mature and are payable in April 2019. As of September 30, 2018, the entire amount of debt under the Series F Notes has been classified as long-term based on Woodward’s intent and ability to refinance this debt prior to maturity using cash proceeds from its existing revolving credit facility which, in turn, is expected to be repaid beyond the next twelve months. On October 1, 2013 , Woodward entered into a note purchase agreement relating to the sale by Woodward of an aggregate principal amount of $250,000 of its senior unsecured notes in a series of private placement transactions. Woodward issued the Series G, H and I Notes (the “First Closing Notes”) on October 1, 2013 . Woodward issued the Series J, K and L Notes (the “Second Closing Notes” and together with the Series D Notes, the Series F Notes and the First Closing Notes, collectively the “USD Notes”) on November 15, 2013 . On September 23, 2016 , Woodward and the BV Subsidiary each entered into note purchase agreements (the “2016 Note Purchase Agreements”) relating to the sale by Woodward and the BV Subsidiary of an aggregate principal amount of €160,000 of senior unsecured notes in a series of private placement transactions. Woodward issued €40,000 Series M Notes. The BV Subsidiary issued (a) €77,000 aggregate principal amount of the BV Subsidiary’s Series N Senior Notes (the “Series N Notes”) and (b) €43,000 aggregate principal amount of the BV Subsidiary’s Series O Senior Notes (the “Series O Notes” and together with the Series M Notes and the Series N Notes, the “2016 Notes,” and, together with the USD Notes, collectively, the “Existing Notes”). On May 31, 2018 , Woodward entered into a note purchase agreement (the “2018 Note Purchase Agreement”) relating to the sale by Woodward of an aggregate principal amount of $400,000 of senior unsecured notes comprised of (a) $85,000 aggregate principal amount of its Series P Senior Notes due May 30, 2025 and bearing interest at a rate of 4.27% per annum (the “Series P Notes”), (b) $85,000 aggregate principal amount of its Series Q Senior Notes due May 30, 2027 and bearing interest at a rate of 4.35% per annum (the “Series Q Notes”), (c) $75,000 aggregate principal amount of its Series R Senior Notes due May 30, 2029 and bearing interest at a rate of 4.41% per annum (the “Series R Notes”), (d) $75,000 aggregate principal amount of its Series S Senior Notes due May 30, 2030 and bearing interest at a rate of 4.46% per annum (the “Series S Notes”), and (e) $80,000 aggregate principal amount of its Series T Senior Notes due May 30, 2033 and bearing interest at a rate of 4.61% per annum (the “Series T Notes”, and together with the Series P Notes, the Series Q Notes, the Series R Notes, and the Series S Notes, the “2018 Notes,” and, together with the Existing Notes, the “Notes”), in a series of private placement transactions. In connection with the issuance of the 2018 Notes, the Company entered into cross currency swap transactions in respect of each tranche of the 2018 Notes, which effectively reduced the interest rates on the Series P Notes to 1.82% per annum, the Series Q Notes to 2.15% per annum, the Series R Notes to 2.42% per annum, the Series S Notes to 2.55% per annum and the Series T Notes to 2.90% per annum (see Note 7, Derivative instruments and hedging activities ). Interest on the First Closing Notes, and the Series K and L Notes is payable semi-annually on April 1 and October 1 of each year until all principal is paid. Interest on the Series F Notes is payable semi-annually on April 15 and October 15 of each year until all principal is paid. Interest on the 2016 Notes is payable semi-annually on March 23 and September 23 of each year, until all principal is paid. Interest on the Series J Notes is payable quarterly on January 1, April 1, July 1 and October 1 of each year until all principal is paid. As of September 30, 2018, the Series J Notes bore interest at an effective rate of 3.57% . Commencing on November 30, 2018, interest on the 2018 Notes is payable semi-annually on May 30 and November 30 of each year until all principal is paid. None of the Notes were registered under the Securities Act of 1933 and they may not be offered or sold in the United States absent registration or an applicable exemption from registration requirements. Holders of the Notes do not have any registration rights. All of the issued Notes are held by multiple institutions. Woodward’s payment and performance obligations under the Notes, including without limitation the obligations for payment of all principal, interest and any applicable prepayment compensation amount, are guaranteed by (i) Woodward FST, Inc., Woodward MPC, Inc., and Woodward HRT, Inc., each of which is a wholly owned subsidiary of Woodward, and (ii) in the case of the BV Subsidiary’s Series N and O Notes, by Woodward. Woodward’s obligations under the Notes rank equal in right of payment with all of Woodward’s other unsecured unsubordinated debt, including its outstanding debt under its revolving credit facility. The Notes contain restrictive covenants customary for such financings, including, among other things, covenants that place limits on Woodward’s ability to incur liens on assets, incur additional debt (including a leverage or coverage based maintenance test), transfer or sell Woodward’s assets, merge or consolidate with other persons and enter into material transactions with affiliates. Under the financial covenants contained in the note purchase agreement governing each series of the Notes, Woodward’s priority debt may not exceed, at any time, 25% of its consolidated net worth. Woodward’s Leverage Ratio cannot exceed 4.0 to 1.0 during any material acquisition period, or 3.5 to 1.0 at any other time on a rolling four quarter basis . In the event that Woodward’s Leverage Ratio exceeds 3.5 to 1.0 during any material acquisition period, the interest rate on each series of Notes will increase. Further for the Series D and F notes, Woodward’s consolidated net worth must at all times equal or exceed $485,940 plus 50% of Woodward’s consolidated net earnings for each fiscal year beginning with the fiscal year ending September 30, 2009. For the Series G, H, I, J, K, L, M, N, and O notes, Woodward’s consolidated net worth must at all times equal or exceed $1,046,619 plus 50% of Woodward’s positive net income for each completed fiscal year beginning with the fiscal year ending September 30, 2016. For the 2018 Notes, Woodward’s consolidated net worth must at all times equal or exceed $1,156,000 plus (i) 50% of Woodward’s positive net income for each completed fiscal year beginning with the fiscal year ending September 30, 2018 and (ii) 50% of the net cash proceeds received by Woodward on or after May 31, 2018 from the issuance of capital stock, other than issuances pursuant to employee stock option or ownership plans. The Company, at its option, is permitted at any time to prepay all or any part of the then-outstanding principal amount of any series of the Notes at 100% of the principal amount of the series of the Notes to be prepaid (but, in the case of partial prepayment, not less than $1,000 for each the USD Notes and the 2018 Notes and not less than €1,000 for the 2016 Notes ), together with interest accrued on such amount to be prepaid to the date of prepayment, plus any applicable prepayment compensation amount. The prepayment compensation amount, as to the USD Notes and 2018 Notes, other than the Series J Notes, is computed by discounting the remaining scheduled payments of interest and principal of the USD Notes and/or 2018 Notes being prepaid at a discount rate equal to the sum of 50 basis points and the yield to maturity of U.S. Treasury securities having a maturity equal to the remaining average life of the USD Notes and/or 2018 Notes being prepaid . The prepayment compensation amount, as to the Series J Notes, generally is computed as a percentage of the principal amount of the Series J Notes equal to (a) 2%, on or prior to November 15, 2014, (b) 1%, after November 15, 2014 and on or prior to November 15, 2015, and (c) 0% after November 15, 2015. The prepayment compensation amount as to the 2016 Notes that is not subject to a swap agreement is computed by discounting the remaining scheduled payments of interest and principal of such notes being prepaid at a discount rate equal to the sum of 50 basis points and the yield to maturity of the German Bund having a maturity equal to the remaining average life of the 2016 Notes being prepaid. The prepayment compensation amount as to a 2016 Note that is subject to a swap agreement entered into by the holder of such note under which the holder will receive payment in U.S. dollars in exchange for scheduled Euro payments of principal and interest on the Euro denominated 2016 Notes, adjusted for theoretical holder returns foregone on hypothetical reinvestments in U.S. Treasury securities (the “Swapped Notes”) is equal to the excess of an amount equal to the remaining scheduled payments to be paid in respect of such called principal under such swap agreement discounted at a rate equal to 50 basis points and the yield to maturity of U.S. Treasury securities having a maturity equal to the remaining average life of the Swapped Notes being prepaid over the amount of payments in U.S. dollars that would be paid to the holder of the Swapped Note in respect of the called principal under the swap agreement, which amount will be increased or reduced, as applicable, in an amount equal to any net gain or loss realized by the holder of such Swapped Note on swap transactions under such swap agreement as a result of such prepayment . Required future principal payments of the Notes as of September 30, 2018 are as follows:     Year Ending September 30:  2019 $ 143,000  2020 -  2021 100,000  2022 -  2023 -  Thereafter 735,751  $ 978,751 Certain financial and other covenants under Woodward’s debt agreements contain customary restrictions on the operation of its business. Management believes that Woodward was in compliance with the covenants under the long-term debt agreements at September 30, 2018. Debt Issuance Costs In connection with the 2018 Note Purchase Agreement, Woodward incurred $1,494 in financing costs, which are deferred and will be amortized using the straight-line method over the life of the agreement. In connection with the 2016 Note Purchase Agreements, in fiscal year 2016, Woodward incurred $863 in financing costs, which are deferred and will be amortized using the straight-line method over the life of the agreement. Amounts recognized as interest expense from the amortization of debt issuance costs were $1,256 in fiscal year 2018, $1,130 in fiscal year 2017, and $1,165 in fiscal year 2016. Unamortized debt issuance costs associated with the Notes of $2,895 as of September 30, 2018 and $1,794 as of September 30, 2017 were recorded as a reduction in “Long-term debt, less current portion” in the Consolidated Balance Sheets. Unamortized debt issuance costs of $1,385 associated with the Revolving Credit Agreement as of September 30, 2018 and $2,259 as of September 30, 2017 were recorded as “Other assets” in the Consolidated Balance Sheets. Amortization of debt issuance costs is included in operating activities in the Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows.

Accrued Liabilities

Accrued Liabilities	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2018
Accrued Liabilities
Accrued Liabilities	Note 14. Accrued liabilities     At September 30,  2018 2017  Salaries and other member benefits $ 88,643 $ 91,285  Warranties 20,130 13,597  Interest payable 18,611 9,626  Current portion of acquired performance obligations and unfavorable contracts (1) 1,627 1,627  Accrued retirement benefits 3,571 2,413  Current portion of loss reserve on contractual lease commitments 1,245 1,343  Current portion of deferred income from JV formation (Note 5) 7,087 6,451  Deferred revenues 2,572 4,625  Restructuring charges 16,522 -  Taxes, other than income 21,128 14,401  Other 13,377 9,704  $ 194,513 $ 155,072   (1) In connection with Woodward’s acquisition of GE Aviation Systems LLC’s (the “Seller”) thrust reverser actuation systems business located in Duarte, California (the “Duarte Acquisition”) in fiscal year 2013, Woodward assumed current and long-term performance obligations for contractual commitments that are expected to result in future economic losses. In addition, Woodward assumed current and long-term performance obligations for services to be provided to the Seller and others, partially offset by current and long-term assets related to contractual payments due from the Seller. The current portion of both obligations is included in Accrued liabilities .  Warranties Provisions of Woodward’s sales agreements include product warranties customary to these types of agreements. Accruals are established for specifically identified warranty issues that are probable to result in future costs. Warranty costs are accrued on a non-specific basis whenever past experience indicates a normal and predictable pattern exists. Changes in accrued product warranties were as follows:       Twelve-Months Ended September 30,  2018 2017 2016  Warranties, beginning of period $ 13,597 $ 15,993 $ 13,741  Increases due to acquisition of L'Orange 6,045 - -  Expense, net of recoveries 5,158 9,135 9,902  Reductions for settling warranties (4,413) (11,692) (7,802)  Foreign currency exchange rate changes (257) 161 152  Warranties, end of period $ 20,130 $ 13,597 $ 15,993    Loss reserve on contractual lease commitments In connection with the construction of a new production facility in Niles, Illinois, Woodward vacated a leased facility in Skokie, Illinois. During the first quarter of fiscal year 2016, Woodward fully vacated the Skokie facility and therefore recorded a charge of $8,165 to recognize a loss reserve against the estimated remaining contractual lease commitments, less anticipated sublease income. During the third quarter of fiscal year 2017, Woodward entered into an additional sublease agreement with a third party related to a portion of the vacated Skokie facility. Woodward recorded a reduction in the loss reserve associated with the vacated Skokie facility of $2,322 related to the anticipated sublease income it will receive. The summary for the activity in the loss reserve during the fiscal years ended September 30, 2018, 2017, and 2016 is as follows:     Twelve-Months Ended September 30,  2018 2017 2016  Loss reserve on contractual lease commitments, beginning of period $ 5,270 $ 9,242 $ 2,464  Additions - - 8,165  Payments (1,339) (1,650) (1,387)  Non-cash adjustments - (2,322) -  Loss reserve on contractual lease commitments, end of period $ 3,931 $ 5,270 $ 9,242  Other liabilities included $2,686 of accrued loss reserve on contractual lease commitments that are not expected to be settled or paid within twelve months as of September 30, 2018. Restructuring charges In fiscal year 2018, the Company recorded restructuring charges totaling $17,013 , the majority of which relate to the Company’s decision to relocate its Duarte, California operations to the Company’s newly renovated Drake Campus in Fort Collins, Colorado. The Duarte facility, which manufactures thrust reverser actuation systems, is part of the Company’s Aerospace segment. The remaining restructuring charges recognized during the year ended September 30, 2018 consist of workforce management costs related to aligning the Company’s industrial turbomachinery business, which is part of the Company’s Industrial segment, with current market conditions. All of the restructuring charges recorded during the year ended September 30, 2018 were recorded as nonsegment expenses and are expected to be paid within one year of the balance sheet date. The summary of activity in accrued restructuring charges during the fiscal year ended September 30, 2018 is as follows:    Period Activity  Balances as of October 1, 2017 Charges (gains) Cash receipts (payments) Non-cash activity Balances as of September 30, 2018  Workforce management costs associated with:  Duarte plant relocation $ - $ 12,504 $ - $ - $ 12,504  Industrial turbomachinery business realignment - 4,509 (491) - 4,018  Total $ - $ 17,013 $ (491) $ - $ 16,522 In addition to the restructuring charges recognized in fiscal year 2018, the Company anticipates incurring additional costs associated with the relocation from Duarte to the Drake Campus such as expenses associated with equipment relocation, employee training, accelerated depreciation, and increased labor expenses over the coming year. The Company anticipates these additional expenses will vary by quarter, but are expected to be approximately $12,000 in total. Although the Company plans to sell the Duarte facility’s land, building and building improvements, it is currently still occupying the Duarte facility and has recorded these as assets held for sale as of September 30, 2018 (see Note 10, Property, plant and equipment ).

Other Liabilities

Other Liabilities	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2018
Other Liabilities
Other Liabilities	Note 15. Other liabilities        At September 30,  2018 2017  Net accrued retirement benefits, less amounts recognized within accrued liabilities $ 90,722 $ 52,211  Noncurrent portion of deferred income from JV formation (1) 235,300 236,896  Total unrecognized tax benefits 8,582 20,949  Noncurrent income taxes payable (2) 12,494 -  Acquired unfavorable contracts (3) 54 2,076  Deferred economic incentives (4) 13,038 14,574  Loss reserve on contractual lease commitments (5) 2,686 3,927  Cross currency swap derivative liability (6) 23,000 -  Other 12,179 14,165  $ 398,055 $ 344,798  (1) See Note 5, Joint venture for more information on the deferred income from JV formation. (2) See Note 17, Income taxes for more information on the noncurrent income taxes payable. (3) In connection with the Duarte Acquisition in fiscal year 2013, Woodward assumed current and long-term performance obligations for contractual commitments that are expected to result in future economic losses. The long-term portion of the acquired unfavorable contracts is included in Other liabilities. (4) Woodward receives certain economic incentives from various state and local authorities related to capital expansion projects. Such amounts are initially recorded as deferred credits and are being recognized as a reduction to pre-tax expense over the economic lives of the related capital expansion projects. (5) See Note 14, Accrued liabilities for more information on the loss reserve on contractual lease commitments . (6) See Note 6, Financial instruments and fair value measurements for more information on the cross currency swap derivative liability.

Other (Income) Expense, Net

Other (Income) Expense, Net	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2018
Other (Income) Expense, Net
Other (Income) Expense, Net	Note 16. Other expense (income), net        Year Ended September 30,  2018 2017 2016  Equity interest in the earnings of the JV (Note 5) $ (3,339) $ (2,568) $ (6,204)  Net gain on sales of assets (1,106) (3,604) (4,431)  Rent income (170) (254) (315)  Net gain on investments in deferred compensation program (1,661) (1,833) (1,062)  Loss on forward option derivative instrument (Note 7) 5,543 - -  Other (792) (786) (294)  $ (1,525) $ (9,045) $ (12,306)

Income Taxes

Income Taxes	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2018
Income Taxes
Income Taxes	Note 17. Income taxes On December 22, 2017, the United States (“U.S.”) enacted significant changes to the U.S. tax law following the passage and signing of the Tax Act. The Tax Act included significant changes to existing tax law, including a permanent reduction to the U.S. federal corporate income tax rate from 35% to 21% , a one-time repatriation tax on deferred foreign income (“Transition Tax”), deductions, credits and business-related exclusions. Also o n December 22, 2017, the SEC issued SAB 118. SAB 118 expresses views of the SEC regarding ASC 740 in the reporting period that includes the enactment date of the Tax Act. Subsequent to the issuance of SAB 118, in March 2018, the FASB issued ASU 2018-05, which formally amended ASC 740 for the guidance previously provided by SAB 118. The SEC staff issuing SAB 118 (the “Staff”) recognized that a registrant’s review of certain income tax effects of the Tax Act may be incomplete at the time financial statements are issued for the reporting period that includes the enactment date, including interim periods therein. The Staff’s view of the enactment of the Tax Act has been developed considering the principles of ASC 805 which addresses the accounting for certain items in a business combination for which the accounting is incomplete upon issuance of the financial statements that include the reporting period in which the business combination occurs. Specifically, the Staff provides that the accounting guidance in ASC Topic 805 may be analogized to the accounting for impacts of the Tax Act. If a company does not have the necessary information available, prepared or analyzed for certain income tax effects of the Tax Act, SAB 118 allows a company to report provisional numbers and adjust those amounts during the measurement period not to extend beyond one year. For the fiscal year ended September 30, 2018, Woodward has recorded all known and estimable impacts of the Tax Act that are effective for fiscal year 2018. Future adjustments to the provisional numbers will be recorded to income tax expense in the period in which those adjustments become estimable and/or are finalized . The Company will finalize its assessment of the income tax effe cts of the Tax Act in the first quarter of fiscal year 2019 . Accordingly, Woodward’s income tax for the fiscal year ended September 30, 2018 reflects a net current year provisional discrete income tax expense resulting from the enactment of the Tax Act as follows:    Year Ended  September 30, 2018  Transition Tax (provisional) $ 13,580  Net impact on U.S. deferred tax assets and liabilities (provisional) (16,038)  Net changes in deferred tax liability associated with anticipated repatriation taxes (provisional) 8,121  Total provisional impact of the enactment of the Tax Act 5,663  Impact on the U.S. net deferred tax assets from IRS audit changes and tax return adjustments 5,197  Net impact of the enactment of the Tax Act $ 10,860 In the first quarter of fiscal year 2018, Woodward reco rded a provisional tax impact in the amount of $14,778 related to the Tax Act. During the third quarter of fis cal year 2018, Woodward increased the tax impact from the Tax Act by an amount of $3,671 (an increase of 1.7% in the fiscal year 2018 effective tax rate) related to the tax rate change effect on an increased defer red tax asset resulting from a U.S. Internal Revenue Service (“IRS”) audit. During the fourth quarter of fiscal year 2018 , Woodward made the following provisional tax impacts related to the Tax Act: (i) the Transition Tax was reduced by an amount of $12,420 (a decrease of 5.7% in the fiscal year 2018 effective tax rate) as a result of increased technical consensus in th e interpretation of the Tax Act a nd comments by the IRS, (ii) the net benefit related to the change in tax rates on U.S. deferred tax assets and liabilities was decreased by an amount of $222 (an increase of 0.1% in the fiscal year 2018 effective tax rate) as a result of adjustments mad e to the first quarter estimate, (iii) Woodward recorded an amount of $3,083 (an increase of 1.4% in the fiscal year 2018 effective tax rate) of additional anticipated repatriation taxes related to the future repa triation of earning to the U.S., and (iv) Woodard recorded an additional amount of $1,526 (an increase of 0.7% in the fiscal year 2018 effective tax rate) related to adjustments to prior period items. Consistent with provisions allowed under the Tax Act, the $13,580 estimated Transition Tax liability will be paid over an eight year period beginning in fiscal year 2019. As of September 30, 2018, the current portion of the estimated Transition Tax liability in the amount of $1,086 has been included in “Income taxes receivable, net,” and the noncurrent portion in the amount of $12,494 has been included in “Other liabilities” in the Consolidated Balance Sheets. Income taxes consisted of the following:     Year Ended September 30,  2018 2017 2016  Current:  Federal $ 39,979 $ 17,872 $ 81,127  State 3,697 1,379 6,067  Foreign 25,968 15,118 9,689  Deferred:  Federal (10,519) 16,907 (40,801)  State (3,784) (2,561) (9,054)  Foreign (16,141) 3,525 (1,380)  $ 39,200 $ 52,240 $ 45,648 Earnings before income taxes by geographical area consisted of the following:     Year Ended September 30,  2018 2017 2016  United States $ 181,671 $ 192,220 $ 175,146  Other countries 37,907 60,527 51,340  $ 219,578 $ 252,747 $ 226,486 Significant components of deferred income taxes presented in the Consolidated Balance Sheets are related to the following:     At September 30,  2018 2017  Deferred tax assets:  Defined benefit plans, other postretirement $ 6,844 $ 11,947  Foreign net operating loss carryforwards 6,071 4,707  Inventory 23,549 29,444  Stock-based and other compensation 39,903 37,693  Defined benefit plans, pension 2,187 1,148  Deferred revenue 60,177 92,426  Other reserves 10,154 10,850  Tax credits and incentives 12,512 9,769  Other 9,887 7,700  Valuation allowance (4,522) (3,714)  Total deferred tax assets, net of valuation allowance 166,762 201,970  Deferred tax liabilities:  Goodwill and intangibles - net (231,223) (103,781)  Property, plant and equipment (85,459) (109,229)  Other (4,425) (2,418)  Total deferred tax liabilities (321,107) (215,428)  Net deferred tax liabilities $ (154,345) $ (13,458) Woodward has recorded a net operating loss (“NOL”) deferred tax asset of $6,071 as of September 30, 2018 and $4,707 as of September 30, 2017. A portion of these NOL carryforwards will start to expire in 2019 and is currently offset by a valuation allowance. Woodward has placed valuation allowances against all other NOL carryforwards that are less than 50 percent likely to be realized. Deferred tax assets are reduced by a valuation allowance if, based on the weight of available evidence, it is more likely than not that some portion or all of the deferred tax assets will not be realized. Both positive and negative evidence are considered in forming Woodward’s judgment as to whether a valuation allowance is appropriate, and more weight is given to evidence that can be objectively verified. Valuation allowances are reassessed whenever there are changes in circumstances that may cause a change in judgment. The change in the valuation allowance was primarily the result of new valuation allowances placed on two wholly owned subsidiaries with net operating losses and a reassessment of another valuation allowance based on a change in estimate of future earnings. As a result of foreign earnings being taxed in the current fiscal year under the Transition Tax, Woodward has reassessed its indefinite investment assertions on certain of those previously taxed foreign earnings. At September 30, 2018, Woodward has not provided for taxes on undistributed foreign earnings of $199,845 that it considered indefinitely reinvested. These earnings could become subject to income taxes if they are remitted as dividends, are loaned to Woodward or any of Woodward’s subsidiaries located in the United States, or if Woodward sells its stock in the foreign subsidiaries. Any additional U.S. taxes could be offset, in part or in whole, by foreign tax credits. The amount of such taxes and application of tax credits would be dependent on the income tax laws and other circumstances at the time these amounts are repatriated. Based on these variables, it is impractical to determine the income tax liability that might be incurred if these funds were to be repatriated. The permanent reduction to the U.S. federal corporate income tax rate from 35 % to 21 % was effective January 1, 2018 (the “Effective Date”). When a U.S. federal tax rate change occurs during a taxpayer’s fiscal year, taxpayers are required to compute a weighted daily average rate for the fiscal year of enactment. As a result of the Tax Act, Woodward has calculated a U.S. federal statutory corporate income tax rate of 24.5% for the fiscal year ending September 30, 2018 and applied this rate in computing the income tax provision for the fiscal year ended September 30, 2018. The U.S. federal statutory corporate income tax rate of 24.5% is the weighted daily average rate between the pre-enactment U.S. federal statutory tax rate of 35% applicable to Woodward’s 2018 fiscal year prior to the Effective Date and the post-enactment U.S. federal statutory tax rate of 21% applicable to the 2018 fiscal year after the Effective Date. Woodward expects the U.S. federal statutory rate to be 21% for fiscal years beginning after September 30, 2018. The following is a reconciliation of the U.S. Federal statutory tax 24.5% in the fiscal year ended September 30, 2018 and 35% in both the fiscal year ended September 30, 2017 and 2016 to Woodward’s effective income tax rate:     Year Ending September 30,  2018 2017 2016  Percent of pretax earnings  Statutory tax rate 24.5 % 35.0 % 35.0 %  State income taxes, net of federal tax benefit (0.5) (0.3) 0.4  Taxes on international activities (1.8) (7.6) (2.2)  Research credit (4.8) (3.2) (3.6)  Net excess income tax benefit from stock-based compensation (1.4) (1.4) (2.6)  Domestic production activities deduction (1.6) (1.5) (2.1)  Adjustments of prior period tax items (5.0) (0.9) (0.2)  Effect of U.S. federal corporate rate reduction on net beginning U.S. deferred tax liability (5.0) - -  Transition Tax 6.2 - -  Increased deferred tax liability associated with anticipated repatriation taxes 3.7 - -  Effect of U.S. federal corporate rate reduction on net current year U.S. deferred tax activity 2.0 - -  Retroactive extension of research credit - - (3.2)  Other items, net 1.6 0.6 (1.3)  Effective tax rate 17.9 % 20.7 % 20.2 % In determining the tax amounts in Woodward’s financial statements, estimates are sometimes used that are subsequently adjusted in the actual filing of tax returns or by updated calculations. In addition, Woodward occasionally has resolutions of tax items with tax authorities related to prior years due to the conclusion of audits and the lapse of applicable statutes of limitations. Such adjustments are included in the “Adjustments of prior period tax items” line in the above table. The majority of these adjustments are related to the conclusion of audits, effective settlement, and lapse of applicable statutes of limitations in various tax jurisdictions. During fiscal year 2018, Woodward adjusted gross tax reserves by $6,677 related to prior year tax positions as a result of concluding IRS and other foreign audits. The decrease in the effective tax rate for fiscal year 2018 compared to the fiscal year 2017 is primarily attributable to the current year impact of the U.S. federal corporate tax rate reduction in connection with the enactment of the Tax Act , which was partially offset by a net unfavorable impact of $10,860 from the Tax Act in fiscal year 2018. Also contributing to the decrease in the effective tax rate was the fiscal year 2018 research and experimentation credit , which was higher than the fiscal year 2017, as well as larger favorable resolutions of tax matters in the fiscal year 2018 compared to fiscal year 2017. The overall decrease in the effective tax rate was partially offset by the fiscal year 2017 benefit from the repatriation to the U.S. of certain net foreign profits and losses , which did not repeat in fiscal year 2018 . On December 18, 2015, the Protecting Americans from Tax Hikes (“PATH”) Act of 2015 was enacted, which permanently extended the Research and Experimentation (“R&E”) Tax Credit. As a result, income taxes for the year ended September 30, 2016 included a net benefit related to the retroactive impact from the last three quarters of fiscal year 2015 of the R&E Credit pursuant to the PATH Act. In addition, income taxes for the year ended September 30, 2016 included a net benefit related to the full year impact of fiscal year 2016 of the R&E Credit. Woodward adopted ASU 2016-09, “Improvements to Employee Share-Based Payment Accounting,” in its second quarter of fiscal year 2016 resulting in the recognition through earnings of a net excess income tax benefit from stock-based compensation. Woodward continues to review the anticipated impacts of the global intangible low taxed income (“GILTI”) and base erosion anti-abuse tax (“BEAT”) on Woodward, which are not effective until fiscal year 2019. Woodward has not recorded any impact associated with either GILTI or BEAT in the fiscal year 2018 tax rate. A reconciliation of the beginning and ending amounts of gross unrecognized tax benefits follows:     Year Ending September 30,  2018 2017 2016  Beginning balance $ 20,132 $ 23,526 $ 21,469  Additions to current year tax positions 2,675 2,560 3,588  Reductions to prior year tax positions (14,458) (5,753) (2,292)  Additions to prior year tax positions 15 3,501 761  Lapse of applicable statute of limitations - (3,702) -  Ending balance $ 8,364 $ 20,132 $ 23,526 Included in the balance of unrecognized tax benefits were $3,288 as of September 30, 2018 and $9,677 as of September 30, 2017 of tax benefits that, if recognized, would affect the effective tax rate. At this time, Woodward does not estimate it is reasonably possible that the liability for unrecognized tax benefits will decre ase in the next twelve months. Woodward accrues for potential interest and penalties related to unrecognized tax benefits and all other interest and penalties related to tax payments in tax expense. Woodward had accrued gross interest and penalties of $279 as of September 30, 2018 and $1,273 as of September 30, 2017. Woodward’s tax returns are subject to audits by U.S. federal, state, and foreign tax authorities, and these audits are at various stages of completion at any given time. Reviews of tax matters by authorities and lapses of the applicable statutes of limitations may result in changes to tax expense. Woodward’s fiscal years remaining open to examination for U.S. Federal income taxes include fiscal years 2017 and thereafter. In fiscal year 2018, Woodward concluded its U.S. federal income tax examinations through fiscal year 2016. Woodward’s fiscal years remaining open to examination for significant U.S. state income tax jurisdictions include fiscal years 2014 and thereafter. Fiscal years remaining open to examination in significant foreign jurisdictions include 2008 and thereafter.

Retirement Benefits

Retirement Benefits	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2018
Retirement Benefits - General
Retirement Benefits	Note 18. Retirement benefits Woodward provides various retirement benefits to eligible members of the Company, including contributions to various defined contribution plans, pension benefits associated with defined benefit plans, postretirement medical benefits and postretirement life insurance benefits. Eligibility requirements and benefit levels vary depending on employee location. Defined contribution plans Most of the Company’s U.S. employees are eligible to participate in the U.S. defined contribution plan. The U.S. defined contribution plan allows employees to defer part of their annual income for income tax purposes into their personal 401(k) accounts. The Company makes matching contributions to eligible employee accounts, which are also deferred for employee personal income tax purposes. Certain foreign employees are also eligible to participate in similar foreign plans. Most of Woodward’s U.S. employees with at least two years of service receive an annual contribution of Woodward stock, equal to 5% of their eligible prior year wages, to their personal Woodward Retirement Savings Plan accounts. In the second quarters of fiscal years 2018, 2017, and 2016, Woodward fulfilled its annual Woodward stock contribution obligation using shares held in treasury stock by issuing a total of 202 shares of common stock for a value of $14,741 in fiscal year 2018, 199 total shares of common stock for a value of $14,014 in fiscal year 2017, and 317 shares of common stock for a value of $13,999 in fiscal year 2016. The Woodward Retirement Savings Plan (the “WRS Plan”) held 3,955 shares of Woodward stock as of September 30, 2018 and 4,183 shares as of September 30, 2017. The shares held in the WRS Plan participate in dividends and are considered issued and outstanding for purposes of calculating basic and diluted earnings per share. Accrued liabilities included obligations to contribute shares of Woodward common stock to the WRS Plan of $11,475 as of September 30, 2018 and $11,355 as of September 30, 2017. The amount of expense associated with defined contribution plans was as follows:       Year Ended September 30,  2018 2017 2016  Company costs $ 34,084 $ 32,008 $ 31,893  Defined benefit plans Woodward has defined benefit plans that provide pension benefits for certain retired employees in the United States, the United Kingdom, Japan and, as a result of the acquisition of L’Orange, Germany. Woodward also provides other postretirement benefits to its employees including postretirement medical benefits and life insurance benefits. Postretirement medical benefits are provided to certain current and retired employees and their covered dependents and beneficiaries in the United States and the United Kingdom. Life insurance benefits are provided to certain retirees in the United States under frozen plans, which are no longer available to current employees. A September 30 measurement date is utilized to value plan assets and obligations for all of Woodward’s defined benefit pension and other postretirement benefit plans. In connection with the acquisition of L’Orange on June 1, 2018, Woodward assumed the unfunded defined benefit pension obligations of the L’Orange defined benefit pension plans (the “L’Orange Pension Plans”). Woodward’s assumption of the liability associated with the L’Orange Pension Plans was part of the total consideration paid by Woodward to acquire L’Orange and thus reduced Woodward’s cash payment for the transaction. Woodward has completed its valuation of the defined benefit pension obligations associated with the L’Orange Pension Plans and determined the value of the associated unfunded obligation was $ 39,257 , of which $1,143 was considered current as of the June 1, 2018 acquisition date. The L’Orange Pension Plans had expenses of $673 and Woodward made $219 of contributions to the L’Orange Pension Plans to pay participant benefits during the year ended September 30, 2018. The L’Orange Pension Plans are unfunded. During the third quarter of fiscal year 2016, Woodward opened a lump-sum buy-out window, which closed in the fourth quarter of fiscal year 2016 and was fully settled during the first quarter of fiscal year 2017, for certain former U.S. employees and/or their dependents eligible to receive postretirement defined benefit pension payments for past employment services to the Company. Eligible pension plan participants were provided the opportunity to elect to receive a one-time lump-sum payment or an immediate annuity in lieu of future pension benefit payments. Pension benefit payments paid from available pension plan assets under the lump-sum buy-out options were $670 during the first nine months of fiscal year 2017. Woodward made no further pension benefit payments under the lump-sum buy-out options. Excluding the Woodward HRT Plan, the defined benefit plans in the United States were frozen in fiscal year 2007 and no additional employees may participate in the U.S. plans and no additional service costs will be incurred. Pension Plans The actuarial assumptions used in measuring the net periodic benefit cost and plan obligations of retirement pension benefits were as follows:     2018 2017 2016  United States:  Weighted-average assumptions to determine benefit obligation at September 30:  Discount rate 4.35 % 3.80 % 3.65 %  Weighted-average assumptions to determine periodic benefit costs for years ended September 30:  Discount rate 3.80 3.65 4.39  Long-term rate of return on plan assets 7.39 7.38 7.62 The discount rate assumption is intended to reflect the rate at which the retirement benefits could be effectively settled based upon the assumed timing of the benefit payments. In the United States, Woodward uses a bond portfolio matching analysis based on recently traded, non-callable bonds rated AA or better that have at least $50 million outstanding to determine the benefit obligations at year end .     2018 2017 2016  United Kingdom:  Weighted-average assumptions to determine benefit obligation at September 30:  Discount rate 2.68 % 2.56 % 2.28 %  Rate of compensation increase 3.60 3.60 3.40  Weighted-average assumptions to determine periodic benefit costs for years ended September 30:  Discount rate - service cost 2.58 2.33 3.86  Discount rate - interest cost 2.36 2.24 3.63  Rate of compensation increase 3.60 3.40 3.40  Long-term rate of return on plan assets 4.75 4.75 5.00      2018 2017 2016  Japan:  Weighted-average assumptions to determine benefit obligation at September 30:  Discount rate 0.62 % 0.58 % 0.46 %  Rate of compensation increase 2.00 2.00 2.02  Weighted-average assumptions to determine periodic benefit costs for years ended September 30:  Discount rate - service cost 0.72 0.59 1.27  Discount rate - interest cost 0.38 0.45 0.59  Rate of compensation increase 2.00 2.02 2.00  Long-term rate of return on plan assets 2.50 2.50 3.00      2018 2017 2016  Germany:  Weighted-average assumptions to determine benefit obligation at September 30:  Discount rate 1.87 n/a n/a  Rate of compensation increase 2.50 n/a n/a  Weighted-average assumptions to determine periodic benefit costs for years ended September 30:  Discount rate - service cost 2.05 n/a n/a  Discount rate - interest cost 1.49 n/a n/a  Rate of compensation increase 2.50 n/a n/a In the United Kingdom, Germany and Japan, Woodward uses a high-quality corporate bond yield curve matched with separate cash flows to develop a single rate to determine the single rate equivalent to settle the entire benefit obligations in each jurisdiction. For the fiscal years ended September 30, 2018 and 2017, the discount rate used to determine periodic service cost and interest cost components of the overall benefit costs was based on spot rates derived from the same high-quality corporate bond yield curve used to determine the September 30, 2017 and 2016 benefit obligation, respectively, matched with separate cash flows for each future year . Compensation increase assumptions, where applicable, are based upon historical experience and anticipated future management actions. In determining the long-term rate of return on plan assets, Woodward assumes that the historical long-term compound growth rates of equity and fixed-income securities will predict the future returns of similar investments in the plan portfolio. Investment management and other fees paid out of the plan assets are factored into the determination of asset return assumptions. Mortality assumptions are based on published mortality studies developed primarily based on past experience of the broad population and modified for projected longevity trends. The projected benefit obligations in the United States as of September 30, 2018 and September 30, 2017 were based on the Society of Actuaries (“SOA”) RP-2014 Mortality Tables Report projected back to 2006 using the SOA’s Mortality Improvement Scale MP-2014 (“MP-2014”) and projected forward using a custom projection scale based on MP-2014 with a 10-year convergence period and a long-term rate of 0.75%. As of September 30, 2018 and September 30, 2017, mortality assumptions in Japan were based on the Standard rates 2014, mortality assumptions for the United Kingdom pension scheme were based on the Self-administered pension scheme (“ SAPS”) S2 “all” tables with a projected 1.5% annual improvement rate, and mortality assumptions in Germany we re based on the Heubeck 2005 G mortality tables. Net periodic benefit costs consist of the following components reflected as expense in Woodward’s Consolidated Statements of Earnings:        Year Ended September 30,  United States Other Countries Total  2018 2017 2016 2018 2017 2016 2018 2017 2016  Service cost $ 1,643 $ 1,675 $ 1,695 $ 1,124 $ 1,133 $ 749 $ 2,767 $ 2,808 $ 2,444  Interest cost 6,004 5,757 5,236 1,526 1,208 1,637 7,530 6,965 6,873  Expected return on plan assets (11,614) (10,529) (10,140) (2,780) (2,605) (2,659) (14,394) (13,134) (12,799)  Amortization of:  Net losses 598 1,854 1,292 291 514 246 889 2,368 1,538  Net prior service (benefit) cost 709 383 384 - - - 709 383 384  Settlement costs - - 47 - - - - - 47  Net periodic (benefit) cost $ (2,660) $ (860) $ (1,486) $ 161 $ 250 $ (27) $ (2,499) $ (610) $ (1,513)  The following tables provide a reconciliation of the changes in the projected benefit obligation and fair value of assets for the defined benefit pension plans:     At or for the Year Ended September 30,  United States Other Countries Total  2018 2017 2018 2017 2018 2017  Changes in projected benefit obligation:  Projected benefit obligation at beginning of year $ 161,130 $ 160,892 $ 66,369 $ 72,057 $ 227,499 $ 232,949  Obligation assumed in L'Orange acquisition - - 39,257 - 39,257 -  Service cost 1,643 1,675 1,124 1,133 2,767 2,808  Interest cost 6,004 5,757 1,526 1,208 7,530 6,965  Net actuarial gains (13,128) (5,267) (383) (6,188) (13,511) (11,455)  Contribution by participants 34 55 9 14 43 69  Benefits paid (5,651) (5,676) (2,888) (2,235) (8,539) (7,911)  Plan amendments - 3,694 - - - 3,694  Foreign currency exchange rate changes - - (1,529) 380 (1,529) 380  Projected benefit obligation at end of year $ 150,032 $ 161,130 $ 103,485 $ 66,369 $ 253,517 $ 227,499   Changes in fair value of plan assets:  Fair value of plan assets at beginning of year $ 160,332 $ 145,886 $ 64,380 $ 62,926 $ 224,712 $ 208,812  Actual return (loss) on plan assets 10,627 20,067 1,407 2,542 12,034 22,609  Contributions by the Company - - 994 671 994 671  Contributions by plan participants 34 55 9 14 43 69  Benefits paid (5,651) (5,676) (2,888) (2,235) (8,539) (7,911)  Foreign currency exchange rate changes - - (1,522) 462 (1,522) 462  Fair value of plan assets at end of year $ 165,342 $ 160,332 $ 62,380 $ 64,380 $ 227,722 $ 224,712  Net over/(under)funded status at end of year $ 15,310 $ (798) $ (41,105) $ (1,989) $ (25,795) $ (2,787) During fiscal year 2017, a plan amendment was adopted for one of our U.S. pension plans as a result of scheduled collective bargaining contract negotiations. At September 30, 2018, the Company’s defined benefit pension plans in the United Kingdom, Japan and Germany represented $52,260 , $10,844 and $40,381 of the total projected benefit obligation, respectively. At September 30, 2018, the United Kingdom and Japan pension plan assets represented $50,860 and $11,520 of the total fair value of all plan assets, respectively. The German pension plans are unfunded and have no plan assets. The accumulated benefit obligations of the Company’s defined benefit pension plans at September 30, 2018 was $150,032 in the United States, $50,594 in the United Kingdom, $9,795 in Japan, and $40,358 in Germany, and at September 30, 2017 was $161,130 in the United States, $53,628 in the United Kingdom, and $10,007 in Japan.      Plans with accumulated benefit obligation in excess of plan assets Plans with accumulated benefit obligation less than plan assets  At September 30, At September 30,  2018 2017 2018 2017  Projected benefit obligation $ (65,938) $ (82,447) $ (187,579) $ (145,052)  Accumulated benefit obligation (65,915) (80,759) (184,864) (144,006)  Fair value of plan assets 23,385 77,036 204,337 147,676 The following tables provide the amounts recognized in the statement of financial position and accumulated other comprehensive losses for the defined benefit pension plans:     At or for the Year Ended September 30,  United States Other Countries Total  2018 2017 2018 2017 2018 2017  Amounts recognized in statement of financial position consist of:  Other non-current assets $ 17,068 $ 1,726 $ 1,090 $ 897 $ 18,158 $ 2,623  Accrued liabilities - - (1,322) (3) (1,322) (3)  Other non-current liabilities (1,758) (2,524) (40,873) (2,883) (42,631) (5,407)  Net over/(under) funded status at end of year $ 15,310 $ (798) $ (41,105) $ (1,989) $ (25,795) $ (2,787)   Amounts recognized in accumulated other comprehensive income consist of:  Unrecognized net prior service cost $ 6,459 $ 7,169 $ - $ - $ 6,459 $ 7,169  Unrecognized net losses 4,285 17,023 14,529 14,198 18,814 31,221  Total amounts recognized 10,744 24,192 14,529 14,198 25,273 38,390  Deferred taxes (5,892) (9,224) (5,081) (5,016) (10,973) (14,240)  Amounts recognized in accumulated other comprehensive losses $ 4,852 $ 14,968 $ 9,448 $ 9,182 $ 14,300 $ 24,150  The following table reconciles the changes in accumulated other comprehensive losses for the defined benefit pension plans:      Year Ended September 30,  United States Other Countries Total  2018 2017 2018 2017 2018 2017  Accumulated other comprehensive losses at beginning of year $ 24,192 $ 37,539 $ 14,198 $ 20,795 $ 38,390 $ 58,334  Net (gain) loss (12,141) (14,805) 990 (6,125) (11,151) (20,930)  Amortization of:  Net losses (598) (1,854) (292) (515) (890) (2,369)  Prior service benefit (cost) (709) 3,312 - - (709) 3,312  Foreign currency exchange rate changes - - (367) 43 (367) 43  Accumulated other comprehensive losses at end of year $ 10,744 $ 24,192 $ 14,529 $ 14,198 $ 25,273 $ 38,390  The amounts expected to be amortized from accumulated other comprehensive losses and reported as a component of net periodic benefit cost during fiscal year 2019 are as follows:     United States Other Countries Total  Prior service cost $ 709 $ - $ 709  Net actuarial losses 617 289 906 Pension benefit payments are made from the assets of the pension plans. The German pension plans are unfunded, therefore, benefit payments are made from Company contributions into these plans as required to meet the payment obligations. Using foreign exchange rates as of September 30, 2018 and expected future service assumptions, it is anticipated that the future benefit payments will be as follows:     Year Ending September 30, United States Other Countries Total  2019 $ 6,531 $ 3,474 $ 10,005  2020 7,217 3,182 10,399  2021 7,819 3,445 11,264  2022 8,342 3,358 11,700  2023 8,840 3,911 12,751  2024 – 2028 49,244 19,640 68,884 Woodward expects its pension plan contributions in fiscal year 2019 will be $688 in the United Kingdom, $224 in Japan and $907 in Germany. Woodward expects to have no pension plan contributions in fiscal year 2019 in the United States. Pension plan assets The overall investment objective of the pension plan assets is to earn a rate of return over time which, when combined with Company contributions, satisfies the benefit obligations of the pension plans and maintains sufficient liquidity to pay benefits. As the timing and nature of the plan obligations varies for each Company sponsored pension plan, investment strategies have been individually designed for each pension plan with a common focus on maintaining diversified investment portfolios that provide for long-term growth while minimizing the risk to principal associated with short-term market behavior. The strategy for each of the plans balances the requirements to generate returns, using investments expected to produce higher returns, such as equity securities, with the need to control risk within the pension plans using less volatile investment assets, such as debt securities. A strategy of more equity-oriented allocation is adopted for those plans which have a longer-term investment plan based on the timing of the associated benefit obligations. A pension oversight committee is assigned by the Company to each pension plan. Among other responsibilities, each committee is responsible for all asset class allocation decisions. Asset class allocations, which are reviewed by the respective pension committee on at least an annual basis, are designed to meet or exceed certain market benchmarks and align with each plan’s investment objectives. In evaluating the asset allocation choices, consideration is given to the proper long-term level of risk for each plan, particularly with respect to the long-term nature of each plan’s liabilities, the impact of asset allocation on investment results and the corresponding impact on the volatility and magnitude of plan contributions and expense and the impact certain actuarial techniques may have on the plans’ recognition of investment experience. From time to time, the plans may move outside the prescribed asset class allocation in order to meet significant liabilities with respect to one or more individuals approaching retirement. Risks associated with the plan assets include interest rate fluctuation risk, market fluctuation risk, risk of default by debt issuers and liquidity risk. To manage these risks, the assets are managed by established, professional investment firms and performance is evaluated regularly by the Company’s pension oversight committee against specific benchmarks and each plan’s investment objectives. Liability management and asset class diversification are central to the Company’s risk management approach and overall investment strategy. The assets of the U.S. plans are invested in actively managed mutual funds. The assets of the plans in the United Kingdom and Japan are invested in actively managed pooled investment funds. Each individual mutual fund or pooled investment fund has been selected based on the investment strategy of the related plan, which mirrors a specific asset class within the associated target allocation. The plans in Germany are unfunded and have no plan assets. Pension plan assets at September 30, 2018 and 2017 do not include any direct investment in Woodward’s common stock. The asset allocations are monitored and rebalanced regularly by investment managers assigned to the individual pension plans. The actual allocations of pension plan assets and target allocation ranges by asset class, are as follows:     At September 30,  2018 2017  Percentage of Plan Assets Target Allocation Ranges Percentage of Plan Assets Target Allocation Ranges  United States:  Asset Class  Equity Securities 65.1% 41.5% - 81.5% 64.6% 41.2% - 81.2%  Debt Securities 33.1% 28.5% - 48.5% 35.2% 28.8% - 48.8%  Other 1.8% 0.0% 0.2% 0.0%  100.0% 100.0%  United Kingdom:  Asset Class  Equity Securities 44.8% 30.0% - 60.0% 46.1% 30.0% - 60.0%  Debt Securities 54.8% 45.0% - 70.0% 53.8% 45.0% - 70.0%  Other 0.4% 0.0% 0.1% 0.0%  100.0% 100.0%  Japan:  Asset Class  Equity Securities 41.0% 36.0% - 44.0% 41.0% 36.0% - 44.0%  Debt Securities 58.1% 55.0% - 63.0% 58.1% 55.0% - 63.0%  Other 0.9% 0.0% - 2.0% 0.9% 0.0% - 2.0%  100.0% 100.0% Actual allocations to each asset class can vary from target allocations due to periodic market value fluctuations, investment strategy changes, and the timing of benefit payments and contributions. The following table presents Woodward’s pension plan assets using the fair value hierarchy established by U.S. GAAP as of September 30, 2018 and September 30, 2017.    At September 30, 2018  Level 1 Level 2 Level 3  United States Other Countries United States Other Countries United States Other Countries Total  Asset Category:  Cash and cash equivalents $ 2,908 $ 317 $ - $ - $ - $ - $ 3,225  Mutual funds:  U.S. corporate bond fund 54,699 - - - - - 54,699  U.S. equity large cap fund 60,176 - - - - - 60,176  International equity large cap growth fund 47,559 - - - - - 47,559  Pooled funds:  Japanese equity securities - - - 2,506 - - 2,506  International equity securities - - - 2,214 - - 2,214  Japanese fixed income securities - - - 4,968 - - 4,968  International fixed income securities - - - 1,730 - - 1,730  Global target return equity/bond fund - - - 12,495 - - 12,495  Index linked U.K. equity fund - - - 4,326 - - 4,326  Index linked international equity fund - - - 5,973 - - 5,973  Index linked U.K. corporate bonds fund - - - 16,121 - - 16,121  Index linked U.K. government securities fund - - - 4,913 - - 4,913  Index linked U.K. long-term government securities fund - - - 6,817 - - 6,817  Total assets $ 165,342 $ 317 $ - $ 62,063 $ - $ - $ 227,722   At September 30, 2017  Level 1 Level 2 Level 3  United States Other Countries United States Other Countries United States Other Countries Total  Asset Category:  Cash and cash equivalents $ 291 $ 167 $ - $ - $ - $ - $ 458  Mutual funds:  U.S. corporate bond fund 56,388 - - - - - 56,388  U.S. equity large cap fund 54,140 - - - - - 54,140  International equity large cap growth fund 49,513 - - - - - 49,513  Pooled funds:  Japanese equity securities - - - 2,487 - - 2,487  International equity securities - - - 2,260 - - 2,260  Japanese fixed income securities - - - 4,987 - - 4,987  International fixed income securities - - - 1,730 - - 1,730  Global target return equity/bond fund - - - 13,103 - - 13,103  Index linked U.K. equity fund - - - 4,940 - - 4,940  Index linked international equity fund - - - 6,285 - - 6,285  Index linked U.K. corporate bonds fund - - - 16,540 - - 16,540  Index linked U.K. government securities fund - - - 4,980 - - 4,980  Index linked U.K. long-term government securities fund - - - 6,901 - - 6,901  Total assets $ 160,332 $ 167 $ - $ 64,213 $ - $ - $ 224,712 Cash and cash equivalents : Cash and cash equivalents held by the Company’s pension plans are held on deposit with creditworthy financial institutions. The fair value of the cash and cash equivalents are based on the quoted market price of the respective currency in which the cash is maintained. Pension assets invested in mutual funds : The assets of the Company’s U.S. pension plans are invested in various mutual funds which invest in both equity and debt securities. The fair value of the mutual funds is determined based on the quoted market price of each fund. Pension assets invested in pooled funds : The assets of the Company’s Japan and United Kingdom pension plans are invested in pooled investment funds, which include both equity and debt securities. The assets of the United Kingdom pension plan are invested in index-linked pooled funds which aim to replicate the movements of an underlying market index to which the fund is linked. Fair value of the pooled funds is based on the net asset value of shares held by the plan as reported by the fund sponsors. All pooled funds held by plans outside of the United States are considered to be invested in international equity and debt securities. Although the underlying securities may be largely domestic to the plan holding the investment assets, the underlying assets are considered international from the perspective of the Company. There were no transfers into or out of Level 3 assets in fiscal years 2018 or 2017. Other postretirement benefit plans Woodward provides other postretirement benefits to its employees including postretirement medical benefits and life insurance benefits. Postretirement medical benefits are provided to certain current and retired employees and their covered dependents and beneficiaries in the United States and the United Kingdom. Benefits include the option to elect company provided medical insurance coverage to age 65 and a Medicare supplemental plan after age 65. Life insurance benefits are also provided to certain retirees in the United States under frozen plans which are no longer available to current employees. A September 30 measurement date is utilized to value plan assets and obligations for Woodward’s other postretirement benefit plans. The postretirement medical benefit plans, other than the plan assumed in an acquisition in fiscal year 2009, were frozen in fiscal year 2006 and no additional employees may participate in the plans. Generally, employees who had attained age 55 and had rendered 10 or more years of service before the plans were frozen were eligible for these postretirement medical benefits. Certain participating retirees are required to contribute to the plans in order to maintain coverage. The plans provide postretirement medical benefits for approximately 740 retired employees and their covered dependents and beneficiaries and may provide future benefits to 9 active employees and their covered dependents and beneficiaries, upon retirement, if the employees elect to participate. All the postretirement medical plans are fully insured for retirees who have attained age 65. The actuarial assumptions used in measuring the net periodic benefit cost and plan obligations of postretirement benefits were as follows:     2018 2017 2016  Weighted-average discount rate used to determine benefit obligation at September 30 4.30 % 3.78 % 3.63 %  Weighted-average discount rate used to determine net periodic benefit cost for years ended September 30 3.80 3.63 4.01 The discount rate assumption is intended to reflect the rate at which the postretirement benefits could be effectively settled based upon the assumed timing of the benefit payments. In the United States, Woodward used a bond portfolio matching analysis based on recently traded, non-callable bonds rated AA or better that have at least $50 million outstanding to determine the benefit obligations at year end . In the United Kingdom, Woodward uses a high-quality corporate bond yield curve matched with separate cash flows to develop a single rate to determine the single rate equivalent to settle the entire benefit obligations in each jurisdiction . Mortality assumptions are based on published mortality studies developed primarily based on past experience of the broad population and modified for projected longevity trends. The projected benefit obligations in the United States as of September 30, 2018 and September 30, 2017 were based on the SOA’s RP-2014 Mortality Tables Report projected back to 2006 using the SOA’s MP-2014 and projected forward using a custom projection scale based on MP-2014 with a 10-year convergence period and a long-term rate of 0.75%. As of September 30, 2018 and September 30, 2017, mortality assumptions for the United Kingdom postretirement medical plan were based on the SAPS S2 “all” tables with a projected 1.5% annual improvement rate. Assumed healthcare cost trend rates at September 30, were as follows:     2018 2017  Health care cost trend rate assumed for next year 6.50 % 6.75 %  Rate to which the cost trend rate is assumed to decline  (the ultimate trend rate) 5.00 % 5.00 %  Year that the rate reaches the ultimate trend rate 2025 2025 Healthcare costs have generally trended upward in recent years, sometimes by amounts greater than 5%. Assumed health care cost trend rates have a significant effect on the amounts reported for postretirement medical plans. A one-percentage-point change in assumed health care cost trend rates would have the following effects:     Change In Health Care Cost Trend Rate  1% increase 1% decrease  Effect on projected fiscal year 2019 service and interest cost $ 106 $ (93)  Effect on accumulated postretirement benefit obligation at September 30, 2018 2,450 (2,165) Net periodic benefit costs consist of the following components reflected as expense in Woodward’s Consolidated Statements of Earnings:     Year Ended September 30,  2018 2017 2016  Service cost $ 7 $ 14 $ 22  Interest cost 1,165 1,244 1,048  Amortization of:  Net losses 94 201 156  Net prior service benefit (158) (158) (158)  Curtailment gain (330) - -  Net periodic cost $ 778 $ 1,301 $ 1,068 The following table provides a reconciliation of the changes in the accumulated postretirement benefit obligation and fair value of assets for the postretirement benefits for the fiscal years ended September 30:     Year Ended September 30,  2018 2017  Changes in accumulated postretirement benefit obligation:  Accumulated postretirement benefit obligation at beginning of year $ 32,252 $ 35,630  Service cost 7 14  Interest cost 1,165 1,244  Premiums paid by plan participants 1,311 1,365  Net actuarial gains (2,716) (2,049)  Benefits paid (3,707) (3,964)  Curtailment (330) -  Foreign currency exchange rate changes 3 12  Accumulated postretirement benefit obligation at end of year $ 27,985 $ 32,252  Changes in fair value of plan assets:  Fair value of plan assets at beginning of year $ - $ -  Contributions by the company 2,396 2,599  Premiums paid by plan participants 1,311 1,365  Benefits paid (3,707) (3,964)  Fair value of plan assets at end of year $ - $ -  Funded status at end of year $ (27,985) $ (32,252) The following tables provide the amounts recognized in the statement of financial position and accumulated other comprehensive losses for the postretirement plans:     Year Ended September 30,  2018 2017  Amounts recognized in statement of financial position consist of:  Accrued liabilities $ (2,249) $ (2,410)  Other non-current liabilities (25,736) (29,842)  Funded status at end of year $ (27,985) $ (32,252)   Amounts recognized in accumulated other comprehensive income consist of:  Unrecognized net prior service (benefit) cost $ (1) $ (160)  Unrecognized net (gains) losses 425 3,234  Total amounts recognized 424 3,074  Deferred taxes (518) (1,183)  Amounts recognized in accumulated other comprehensive income $ (94) $ 1,891 Woodward pays plan benefits from its general funds; therefore, there are no segregated plan assets as of September 30, 2018 or September 30, 2017. The accumulated benefit obligations of the Company’s postretirement plans were $27,985 at September 30, 2018 and $32,252 at September 30, 2017. The following table reconciles the changes in accumulated other comprehensive losses for the other postretirement benefit plans:     Year Ended September 30,  2018 2017  Accumulated other comprehensive losses at beginning of year $ 3,074 $ 5,166  Net gain (2,654) (2,049)  Curtailment arising during the period (59)  Amortization of:  Net losses (95) (201)  Prior service benefit 158 158  Foreign currency exchange rate changes - -  Accumulated other comprehensive losses at end of year $ 424 $ 3,074 Using foreign currency exchange rates as of September 30, 2018 and expected future service, it is anticipated that the future Company contributions to pay benefits, excluding participate contributions, will be as follows:     Year Ending September 30,  2019 $ 3,615  2020 3,612  2021 3,601  2022 3,562  2023 3,498  2024 – 2028 16,124 Multiemployer defined benefit plans Woodward operates multiemployer defined benefit plans for certain employees in both the Netherlands and Japan. The amounts of contributions associated with the multiemployer defined benefit plans were as follows:     Year Ended September 30,  2018 2017 2016  Company contributions $ 334 $ 292 $ 475 The plan in the Netherlands is a quasi-mandatory plan that covers all of Woodward’s employees in the Netherlands and is part of the Dutch national pension system. The

Stockholders' Equity

Stockholders' Equity	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2018
Stockholders' Equity and Stock-Based Compensation [Abstract]
Stockholders' Equity	Note 19. Stockholders’ equity Common Stock Holders of Woodward’s common stock are entitled to receive dividends when and as declared by Woodward’s Board of Directors and have the right to one vote per share on all matters requiring stockholder approval. Dividends declared and paid during the 2018, 2017 and 2016 fiscal years were:     Year Ended September 30,  2018 2017 2016  Dividends declared and paid $ 34,003 $ 29,745 $ 26,606  Dividend per share amount 0.5525 0.4850 0.4300 Stock repurchase program In the first quarter of fiscal year 2017, Woodward’s board of directors terminated the Company’s prior stock repurchase program (the “Prior Repurchase Program”) and replaced it with a new program for the repurchase of up to $500,000 of Woodward’s outstanding shares of common stock on the open market or in privately negotiated transactions over a three -year period that will end in November 2019 (the “2017 Authorization”). In fiscal year 2017, Woodward purchased , under the 2017 Authorization, 1,027 shares of its common stock for $71,197 , of which 491 shares were purchased pursuant to a 10b5-1 plan and 536 shares were purchased pursuant to a 10b-18 plan. Woodward repurchased no common stock under the 2017 Authorization in fiscal year 2018. Under the Prior Repurchase Program, in the first quarter of fiscal year 2016, Woodward executed a 10b5-1 plan to repurchase up to $125,000 of its common stock for a period that ended on April 20, 2016. During fiscal year 2016, Woodward purchased 2,635 shares of its common stock for $125,000 . Stock-based compensation Non-qualified stock option awards and restricted stock awards are granted to key management members and directors of the Company. The grant date for these awards is used for the measurement date. Vesting would be accelerated in the event of retirement, disability, or death of a participant, or change in control of the Company, as defined in the individual stock option agreements. These awards are valued as of the measurement date and are amortized on a straight-line basis over the requisite vesting period for all awards, including awards with graded vesting. Stock for exercised stock options and for restricted stock awards is issued from treasury stock shares. Provisions governing outstanding stock option awards are included in the 2017 Omnibus Incentive Plan, as amended from time to time (the “2017 Plan”), the 2006 Omnibus Incentive Plan (the “2006 Plan”) and the 2002 Stock Option Plan (the “2002 Plan”). The 2002 Plan provided that no further grants would be made after December 31, 2006. No further grants will be made under the 2006 Plan, which expired in fiscal year 2016. The 2017 Plan was approved by Woodward’s stockholders in January 2017 and is a successor plan to the 2006 Plan. As of September 14, 2016, the effective date of the 2017 Plan, Woodward’s Board of Directors delegated authority to administer the 2017 Plan to the compensation committee of the board (the “Committee”), including, but not limited to, the power to determine the recipients of awards and the terms of those awards. Under the 2017 Plan, there were approximately 1,300 shares of Woodward’s common stock available for future grants as of September 30, 2018. Stock options Woodward believes that stock options align the interests of its employees and directors with the interests of its stockholders. Stock option awards are granted with an exercise price equal to the market price of Woodward’s stock at the date the grants are awarded, a ten -year term, and generally a four -year vesting schedule at a rate of 25% per year. The fair value of options granted is estimated as of the grant date using the Black-Scholes-Merton option-valuation model using the assumptions in the following table. Woodward calculates the expected term, which represents the average period of time that stock options granted are expected to be outstanding, based upon historical experience of plan participants. Expected volatility is based on historical volatility using daily stock price observations. The estimated dividend yield is based upon Woodward’s historical dividend practice and the market value of its common stock. The risk-free rate is based on the U.S. treasury yield curve, for periods within the contractual life of the stock option, at the time of grant.     Year Ended September 30,  2018 2017 2016  Weighted-average exercise price per share $ 78.91 $ 62.74 $ 40.26  Weighted-average grant date market value of Woodward stock $ 78.91 $ 69.45 $ 40.26  Expected term (years) 6.4 - 8.7 6.0 - 8.7 6.3 - 8.7  Estimated volatility 29.1% - 32.7% 30.6% - 33.7% 34.5% - 35.1%  Estimated dividend yield 0.6% - 0.8% 0.7% 1.0%  Risk-free interest rate 2.1% - 2.8% 2.0% - 2.5% 1.7% - 2.0%    The weighted average grant date fair value of options granted follows:     Year Ended September 30,  2018 2017 2016  Weighted-average grant date fair value of options $ 25.66 $ 24.98 $ 13.39 The following is a summary of the activity for stock option awards during the fiscal year ended September 30, 2018:     Number Weighted-Average Exercise Price Per Share  Balance at September 30, 2017 5,236 $ 39.58  Options granted 750 78.91  Options exercised (334) 27.34  Options forfeited (41) 59.64  Balance at September 30, 2018 5,611 45.42  Exercise prices of stock options outstanding as of September 30, 2018 range from $18.67 to $78.97 . Changes in non-vested stock options during the fiscal year ended September 30, 2018 were as follows:     Number Weighted-Average Grant Date Fair Value Per Share  Balance at September 30, 2017 2,072 $ 18.61  Options granted 750 25.66  Options vested (793) 17.58  Options forfeited (41) 20.80  Balance at September 30, 2018 1,988 21.64 Information about stock options that have vested, or are expected to vest, and are exercisable at September 30, 2018 was as follows:     Number Weighted- Average Exercise Price Per Share Weighted- Average Remaining Life in Years Aggregate Intrinsic Value  Options outstanding 5,611 $ 45.42 5.6 $ 198,843  Options vested and exercisable 3,623 36.50 4.3 160,703  Options vested and expected to vest 5,551 45.17 5.6 198,108  Other information follows:     Year Ended September 30,  2018 2017 2016  Total fair value of stock options vested $ 13,944 $ 11,639 $ 10,374  Total intrinsic value of options exercised 16,690 16,416 23,178  Cash received from exercises of stock options 9,132 14,196 15,892  Excess tax benefit realized from exercise of stock options 3,524 4,383 6,472 Restricted stock In connection with Woodward’s acquisition of L’Orange, restricted stock units were granted to certain employees of L’Orange and other current members in key management positions. Each restricted stock unit entitles the holder to one share of the Company’s common stock upon vesting. The restricted stock units were granted with a two -year vesting schedule and vest on the one and two year anniversaries of the grant date at a rate of 50% per year . The restricted stock units do not participate in dividends during the vesting period. The fair value of restricted stock units granted were estimated using the closing price of Woodward common stock on the grant date. A summary of the activity for restricted stock units in fiscal year ended September 30, 2018: Changes in the restricted stock units during the fiscal year ending September 30, 2018 were as follows:   Number Fair Value per Share  Balance at September 30, 2017 - n/a  Shares granted 10 82.71  Shares vested - n/a  Shares forfeited - n/a  Balance at September 30, 2018 10 82.71 Stock-based compensation expense Woodward recognizes stock-based compensation expense on a straight-line basis over the requisite service period. Pursuant to form stock option agreements used by the Company, with terms approved by the administrator of the applicable plan, the requisite service period can be less than the four-year vesting period based on grantee’s retirement eligibility. As such, the recognition of stock-based compensation expense associated with some stock option grants can be accelerated to a period of less than four years, including immediate recognition of stock-based compensation expense on the date of grant. Stock-based compensation expense recognized was as follows:     Year Ended September 30,  2018 2017 2016  Employee stock-based compensation expense $ 18,229 $ 17,282 $ 15,122 At September 30, 2018, there was approximately $9,887 of total unrecognized compensation expense related to non-vested stock-based compensation arrangements, including both stock options and restricted stock awards. The pre-vesting forfeiture rates for purposes of determining stock-based compensation expense recognized were estimated to be 0% for members of Woodward’s board of directors and 9% for all others. The remaining unrecognized compensation cost is expected to be recognized over a weighted-average period of approximately 1.8 years.

Commitments and Contingencies

Commitments and Contingencies	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2018
Commitments and Contingencies Disclosure
Commitments and Contingencies	Note 20. Commitments and contingencies Woodward has entered into operating leases for certain facilities, equipment, and software with terms in excess of one year under agreements that expire at various dates. Some leases require the payment of property taxes, insurance, and maintenance costs in addition to rental payments. Woodward has also entered into capital leases for equipment with terms in excess of one year under agreements that expire at various dates. Future minimum payments required under these leases, excluding available option renewals, are as follows:     Year Ending September 30, Operating Leases Capital Leases  2019 $ 7,579 $ 566  2020 4,808 212  2021 4,228 118  2022 3,227 -  2023 2,542 -  Thereafter 3,636 -  Total $ 26,020 $ 896 Rent expense for all operating leases follows:     Year Ended September 30,  2018 2017 2016  Rent expense $ 8,348 $ 8,302 $ 7,359 Woodward enters into unconditional purchase obligation arrangements (i.e. issuance of purchase orders, obligations to transfer funds in the future for fixed or minimum quantities of goods or services at fixed or minimum prices, such as "take-or-pay" contracts) in the normal course of business to ensure that adequate levels of sourced product are available to Woodward. Future minimum unconditional purchase obligations are as follows:     Year Ending September 30,  2019 $ 429,409  2020 25,636  2021 1  2022 -  2023 -  Thereafter -  Total $ 455,046  The U.S. Government, and other governments, may terminate any of Woodward’s government contracts (and, in general, subcontracts) at their convenience, as well as for default based on specified performance measurements. If any of Woodward’s government contracts were to be terminated for convenience, the Company generally would be entitled to receive payment for work completed and allowable termination or cancellation costs. If any of Woodward’s government contracts were to be terminated for Woodward’s default, the U.S. Government generally would pay only for the work accepted, and could require Woodward to pay the difference between the original contract price and the cost to re-procure the contract items, net of the work accepted from the original contract. The U.S. Government could also hold Woodward liable for damages resulting from the default. Woodward is currently involved in claims, pending or threatened litigation or other legal proceedings, investigations and/or regulatory proceedings arising in the normal course of business, including, among others, those relating to product liability claims, employment matters, worker’s compensation claims, contractual disputes, product warranty claims and alleged violations of various laws and regulations. Woodward accrues for known individual matters using estimates of the most likely amount of loss where it believes that it is probable the matter will result in a loss when ultimately resolved and such loss is reasonably estimable. Legal costs are expensed as incurred and are classified in “Selling, general and administrative expenses” on the Consolidated Statements of Earnings. Woodward is partially self-insured in the United States for healthcare and worker’s compensation up to predetermined amounts, above which third party insurance applies. Management regularly reviews the probable outcome of related claims and proceedings, the expenses expected to be incurred, the availability and limits of the insurance coverage, and the established accruals for liabilities. While the outcome of pending claims, legal and regulatory proceedings, and investigations cannot be predicted with certainty, management believes that any liabilities that may result from these claims, proceedings and investigations will not have a material effect on Woodward’s liquidity, financial condition, or results of operations. In the event of a change in control of Woodward, as defined in change-in-control agreements with its current corporate officers, Woodward may be required to pay termination benefits to any such officer if such officer’s employment is terminated within two years following the change of control.

Segment Information

Segment Information	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2018
Segment Information
Segment Information	Note 21. Segment information Woodward serves the aerospace and industrial markets through its two reportable segments - Aerospace and Industrial. When appropriate, Woodward’s reportable segments are aggregations of Woodward’s operating segments. Woodward uses operating segment information internally to manage its business, including the assessment of operating segment performance and decisions for the allocation of resources between operating segments. L’Orange has been included in Woodward’s Industrial segment results since the Closing. The accounting policies of the reportable segments are the same as those of the Company. Woodward evaluates segment profit or loss based on internal performance measures for each segment in a given period. In connection with that assessment, Woodward generally excludes matters such as certain charges for restructuring, interest income and expense, certain gains and losses from asset dispositions, or other non-recurring and/or non-operationally related expenses. A summary of consolidated net sales and earnings by segment follows:     Year Ended September 30,  2018 2017 2016  Segment external net sales:  Aerospace $ 1,557,988 $ 1,342,339 $ 1,233,176  Industrial 767,885 756,346 789,902  Total consolidated net sales $ 2,325,873 $ 2,098,685 $ 2,023,078  Segment earnings:  Aerospace $ 301,803 $ 257,813 $ 232,166  Industrial 47,938 78,991 82,237  Nonsegment expenses (1) (100,067) (58,352) (63,166)  Interest expense, net (30,096) (25,705) (24,751)  Consolidated earnings before income taxes $ 219,578 $ 252,747 $ 226,486  (1) Nonsegment expenses for the fiscal year ended September 30, 2018 includes restructuring charges of $17,013 . See Note 14, Accrued liabilities for further details. Segment assets consist of accounts receivable, inventories, property, plant, and equipment, net, goodwill, and other intangibles, net. A summary of consolidated total assets, consolidated depreciation and amortization and consolidated capital expenditures follows:     Year Ended September 30,  2018 2017 2016  Segment assets:  Aerospace $ 1,805,892 $ 1,722,789 $ 1,637,522  Industrial 1,642,462 695,264 705,169  Unallocated corporate property, plant and equipment, net 102,083 104,755 89,988  Other unallocated assets 240,212 234,301 209,683  Consolidated total assets $ 3,790,649 $ 2,757,109 $ 2,642,362   Segment depreciation and amortization:  Aerospace $ 54,828 $ 47,277 $ 40,825  Industrial 51,695 24,421 20,412  Unallocated corporate amounts 9,608 9,219 7,799  Consolidated depreciation and amortization $ 116,131 $ 80,917 $ 69,036   Segment capital expenditures:  Aerospace $ 98,358 $ 62,812 $ 90,749  Industrial 17,109 12,189 62,065  Unallocated corporate amounts 11,673 17,335 22,878  Consolidated capital expenditures $ 127,140 $ 92,336 $ 175,692  Sales to General Electric Company were made by both of Woodward’s reportable segments and totaled approximately 16% of net sales in fiscal year 2018, 16% of net sales in fiscal year 2017, and 17% of net sales in fiscal year 2016. Sales to The Boeing Company were made by Woodward’s Aerospace segment and totaled approximately 12% of net sales in fiscal year 2018, 11% of net sales in fiscal year 2017, and 8% of net sales in fiscal year 2016. Accounts receivable from General Electric Company totaled approximately 8% of accounts receivable at September 30, 2018 and 10% of accounts receivable at September 30, 2017. Accounts receivable from The Boeing Company totaled approximately 14% of accounts receivable at September 30, 2018 and 9% of accounts receivable at September 30, 2017. U.S. Government related sales from Woodward’s reportable segments were as follows:     Direct U.S. Government Sales Indirect U.S. Government Sales Total U.S. Government Related Sales  Fiscal year ended September 30, 2018  Aerospace $ 84,252 $ 429,386 $ 513,638  Industrial 2,547 8,658 11,205  Total net external sales $ 86,799 $ 438,044 $ 524,843  Percentage of total net sales 4% 19% 23%   Fiscal year ended September 30, 2017  Aerospace $ 106,685 $ 362,536 $ 469,221  Industrial 3,726 10,814 14,540  Total net external sales $ 110,411 $ 373,350 $ 483,761  Percentage of total net sales 5% 18% 23%   Fiscal year ended September 30, 2016  Aerospace $ 103,026 $ 310,952 $ 413,978  Industrial 6,550 9,845 16,395  Total net external sales $ 109,576 $ 320,797 $ 430,373  Percentage of total net sales 5% 16% 21%  Accounts receivable from the U.S. Government totaled approximately 3% of accounts receivable at September 30, 2018 and 3% of accounts receivable at September 30, 2017. The customers who account for approximately 10% or more of sales to each of Woodward’s reportable segments for the fiscal year ended September 30, 2018 follow:     Customer  Aerospace The Boeing Company, General Electric Company  Industrial General Electric Company Net sales by geographical area, as determined by the location of the customer invoiced, were as follows:       Year Ended September 30,  2018 2017 2016  United States $ 1,350,708 $ 1,211,902 $ 1,118,833  Germany 230,834 173,180 200,545  Europe (1) 323,109 305,545 337,356  Asia 283,031 288,252 228,683  Other countries 138,191 119,806 137,661  Consolidated net sales $ 2,325,873 $ 2,098,685 $ 2,023,078  (1) Includes all European countries other than Germany. Property, plant, and equipment, net by geographical area, as determined by the physical location of the assets, were as follows:       At September 30,  2018 2017  United States $ 922,734 $ 872,947  Germany 111,595 24,541  Other countries 25,676 24,555  Consolidated property, plant and equipment, net $ 1,060,005 $ 922,043 

Schedule II

Schedule II	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2018
Valuation and Qualifying Accounts
Schedule II	 WOODWARD, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES SCHEDULE II – VALU ATION AND QUALIFYING ACCOUNTS For the years ended September 30, 2018, 2017, and 2016 (in thousands)      Column A Column B Column C Column D Column E  Additions  Description Balance at Beginning of Year Charged to Costs and Expenses Charged to Other Accounts (a) Deductions (b) Balance at End of Year  Fiscal year 2018  Allowance for uncollectible accounts $ 3,776 $ 207 $ 466 $ (511) $ 3,938  Deferred tax asset valuation allowance 3,714 73 553 182 4,522  Fiscal year 2017  Allowance for uncollectible accounts 2,540 1,063 449 (276) 3,776  Deferred tax asset valuation allowance 3,317 77 - 320 3,714  Fiscal year 2016  Allowance for uncollectible accounts 3,841 255 233 (1,789) 2,540  Deferred tax asset valuation allowance 6,804 53 - (3,540) 3,317  Notes: (a) Includes recoveries of accounts previously written off.  (b) Represents accounts receivable written off against the allowance for collectible accounts and releases of valuation reserves to income tax expense. Also included are foreign currency exchange rate adjustments. Currency transl ation adjustments resulted in a decrease in the reserves of $96 in fiscal year 2018, an increase in the reserves of $64 in fiscal year 2017, and an increase in the reserve s of $77 in fiscal year 2016.

Supplemental Quarterly Financia

Supplemental Quarterly Financial Data (Unaudited)	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2018
Quarterly Financial Information Disclosure
Supplemental Quarterly Financial Data (Unaudited)	Note 22. Supplemental quarterly financial data (Unaudited) Quarterly results for the fiscal years ended September 30, 2018 and September 30, 2017 follow:     2018 Fiscal Quarters  First Second Third Fourth  Net sales (1) $ 470,148 $ 548,249 $ 588,117 $ 719,359  Gross margin (2)(3) 123,364 146,918 160,220 175,696  Earnings before income taxes (3)(4)(5)(6) 37,487 48,647 54,417 79,027  Net earnings (3)(4)(5)(6)(7) 18,260 38,489 49,117 74,512  Earnings per share  Basic earnings per share (3)(4)(5)(6)(7) 0.30 0.63 0.80 1.21  Diluted earnings per share (3)(4)(5)(6)(7) 0.29 0.60 0.77 1.16  Cash dividends per share 0.1250 0.1425 0.1425 0.1425   2017 Fiscal Quarters  First Second Third Fourth  Net sales $ 442,894 $ 500,381 $ 548,622 $ 606,788  Gross margin (2) 113,746 133,282 153,872 171,659  Earnings before income taxes 47,059 50,236 68,687 86,765  Net earnings 46,548 38,105 53,626 62,228  Earnings per share  Basic earnings per share 0.76 0.62 0.87 1.02  Diluted earnings per share 0.73 0.60 0.85 0.98  Cash dividends per share 0.1100 0.1250 0.1250 0.1250 Notes: 1. On June 1, 2018, Woodward acquired L’Orange. Net sales attributable to L’Orange were $24,878 and $78,027 in the third quarter and fourth quarters of fiscal year 2018, respectively. 2. Gross margin represents net sales less cost of goods sold. 3. Results for the third and fourth quarters of fiscal year 2018 include pre-tax non-cash charges of $8,299 and $26,086 , respectively, associated with the purchase accounting impacts related to the revaluation of the L’Orange inventory recognized in cost of goods sold and the amortization of the backlog intangible. 4. Results for the second, third and fourth quarters of fiscal year 2018, include pre-tax L’Orange acquisition transaction and integration costs of $1,281 , $3,077 and $850 , respectively. 5. Results for the third quarter of fiscal year 2018 include the (i) pre-tax cost associated with an at-the-money-forward option of $5,543 , (ii) pre-tax warranty and indemnity insurance costs associated with the acquisition of L’Orange of $4,293 , and (iii) pre-tax German real estate transfer tax costs associated with the acquisition of L’Orange of $3,385 . 6. The second quarter of fiscal year 2018 includes pre-tax restructuring charges totaling $17,013 , the majority of which relate to the Company’s decision to relocate its Duarte, California operations to the Company’s newly renovated Drake Campus in Fort Collins, Colorado. The remaining restructuring charges recognized during the quarter consist of workforce management costs related to aligning the Company’s industrial turbomachinery business with current market conditions. 7. In the first and third quarters of fiscal year 2018, Woodward recognized a tax expense of $14,778 and $3,671 , respectively, and tax benefit of $7,589 in the fourth quarter of fiscal year 2018, related to the transition impacts of the change in U.S. tax legislation in December 2017. Quarterly results by segment for the fiscal years ended September 30, 2018 and September 30, 2017 follow:      2018 Fiscal Quarters  First Second Third Fourth  Segment external net sales:  Aerospace $ 305,905 $ 386,343 $ 404,612 $ 461,128  Industrial (1) 164,243 161,906 183,505 258,231  Total $ 470,148 $ 548,249 $ 588,117 $ 719,359  Segment earnings:  Aerospace $ 43,553 $ 72,969 $ 82,199 $ 103,082  Industrial (2) 19,344 10,237 10,450 7,907  Nonsegment expenses (3)(4)(5) (19,023) (28,343) (30,696) (22,005)  Interest expense, net (6,387) (6,216) (7,536) (9,957)  Consolidated earnings before income taxes $ 37,487 $ 48,647 $ 54,417 $ 79,027   2017 Fiscal Quarters  First Second Third Fourth  Segment external net sales:  Aerospace $ 266,680 $ 320,526 $ 355,992 $ 399,141  Industrial 176,214 179,855 192,630 207,647  Total $ 442,894 $ 500,381 $ 548,622 $ 606,788  Segment earnings:  Aerospace $ 46,877 $ 58,227 $ 67,173 $ 85,536  Industrial 17,998 17,089 20,870 23,034  Nonsegment expenses (11,381) (18,764) (12,945) (15,262)  Interest expense, net (6,435) (6,316) (6,411) (6,543)  Consolidated earnings before income taxes $ 47,059 $ 50,236 $ 68,687 $ 86,765   1. Net Industrial segment sales attributable to L’Orange were $24,878 and $78,027 in the third and fourth quarters of fiscal year 2018, respectively. 2. Industrial segment earnings for the third and fourth quarters of fiscal year 2018 include non-cash charges of $8,299 and $26,086 , respectively, associated with the purchase accounting impacts relate to the revaluation of the L’Orange inventory recognized in cost of goods sold and the amortization of the backlog intangible. 3. Nonsegment expenses for the third quarter include (i) cost associated with an at-the-money-forward option of $5,543 , (ii) warranty and indemnity insurance costs associated with the acquisition of L’Orange of $4,293 , and (iii) German real estate transfer tax costs associated with the acquisition of L’Orange of $3,385 . 4. Nonsegment expenses for the second, third and fourth quarters of fiscal year 2018, include L’Orange acquisition transaction and integration costs of $1,281 , $3,077 and $850 , respectively. 5. Nonsegment expenses for the second quarter of fiscal year 2018 include restructuring charges totaling $17,013 , the majority of which relate to the Company’s decision to relocate its Duarte, California operations to the Company’s newly renovated Drake Campus in Fort Collins, Colorado. The remaining restructuring charges recognized during the quarter consist of workforce management costs related to aligning the Company’s industrial turbomachinery business with current market conditions. 

Operations and summary of sig_2

Operations and summary of significant accounting policies (Policy)	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2018
Accounting Policies [Line Items]
Principles of consolidation	Principles of consolid ation: These Consolidated Financial Statements are prepared in accordance with U.S. GAAP and include the accounts of Woodward and its wholly and majority-owned subsidiaries. Transactions within and between these companies are eliminated.
Use of estimates	Use of estimates: The preparation of the Consolidated Financial Statements requires management to make use of estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amount of assets and liabilities, at the date of the financial statements and the reported revenues and expenses recognized during the reporting period, and certain financial statement disclosures. Significant estimates include allowances for uncollectible amounts, net realizable value of inventories, customer rebates earned, useful lives of property and identifiable intangible assets, the evaluation of impairments of property, identifiable intangible assets and goodwill, the provision for income tax and related valuation reserves, the valuation of assets and liabilities acquired in business combinations, assumptions used in the determination of the funded status and annual expense of pension and postretirement employee benefit plans, the valuation of stock compensation instruments granted to employees, and contingencies. Actual results could differ from those estimates.
Foreign currency exchange rates	Foreign currency exchange rates: The assets and liabilities of substantially all subsidiaries outside the United States are translated at fiscal year-end rates of exchange, and earnings and cash flow statements are translated at weighted-average rates of exchange. T he exchange rate in effect at the time of the cash flow is used for significant or infrequent cash flows, such as payments for a business acquisition, for which the use of weighted-average rates of exchange would result in a substantially different cash flow. Translation adjustments are accumulated with other comprehensive (losses) earnings as a separate component of stockholders’ equity and are presented net of tax effects in the Consolidated Statements of Stockholders’ Equity. The effects of changes in foreign currency exchange rates on loans between consolidated subsidiaries that are considered permanent in nature are also accumulated with other comprehensive earnings, net of tax. The Company is exposed to market risks related to fluctuations in foreign currency exchange rates because some sales transactions, and certain of the assets and liabilities of its domestic and foreign subsidiaries, are denominated in foreign currencies. Selling, general, and administrative expenses include a net foreign currency loss of $1,608 in fiscal year 2018, net foreign currency loss of $651 in fiscal year 2017, and a net foreign currency gain of $701 in fiscal year 2016.
Revenue recognition	Revenue recognition: Woodward recognizes revenue upon shipment or delivery of products or services and when collectability is reasonably assured. Delivery is upon completion of manufacturing, customer acceptance, and the transfer of the risks and rewards of ownership. In countries whose laws provide for retention of some form of title by sellers, enabling recovery of goods in the event of customer default on payment, product delivery is considered to have occurred when the customer has assumed the risks and rewards of ownership of the products. Occasionally, Woodward transfers title of product to customers, but retains substantive performance obligations such as completion of product testing, customer acceptance or in some instances regulatory acceptance. In addition, occasionally customers pay Woodward for products or services prior to Woodward satisfying its performance obligation. Under these circumstances, revenue is deferred until the performance obligations are satisfied. In addition, service revenue is also recognized upon completion of applicable performance obligations. Certain Woodward products include incidental software or firmware essential to the performance of the product as designed, which are treated as units of accounting associated with the related tangible product with which the software is included. Woodward does not generally sell software on a standalone basis, although software upgrades, if any, are generally paid for by the customer. Revenue for certain non-recurring engineering projects is recognized when contractually specified milestones are achieved. Product freight costs are included in cost of goods sold. Freight costs charged to customers are included in net sales. Taxes collected from customers and remitted to government authorities are excluded from revenue and are recorded as liabilities until the taxes are remitted to the appropriate U.S. or foreign government authority. Net sales generated through shipment of tangible products to customers represents more than 90% of total net sales for fiscal years 2018, 2017 and 2016.
Customer payments	For discussion of the impacts of the adoption of Accounting Standards Cod ification Topic 606 on r evenue recognition, see Note 2, New accounting standards . Customer payments : Woodward occasionally agrees to make payments to certain customers in order to participate in anticipated sales activity. Payments made to customers are accounted for as a reduction of revenue unless they are made in exchange for identifiable goods or services with fair values that can be reasonably estimated. Reductions in revenue associated with these customer payments are recognized immediately to the extent that the payments cannot be attributed to anticipated future sales, and are recognized in future periods to the extent that the payments relate to anticipated future sales. Such determinations are based on the facts and circumstances underlying each payment.
Stock-based compensation	Stock-based compensation: Compensation cost relating to stock-based payment awards made to employees and directors is recognized in the financial statements using a fair value method. Non-qualified stock option awards and restricted stock awards are issued under Woodward’s stock-based compensation plans. The cost of such awards, measured at the grant date, is based on the estimated fair value of the award. Forfeitures are estimated at the time of each grant in order to estimate the portion of the award that will ultimately vest. The estimate is based on Woodward’s historical rates of forfeitures and is updated periodically. The portion of the award that is ultimately expected to vest is recognized as expense over the requisite service periods, which is generally the vesting period of the awards.
Research and development	Research and development costs : Company funded expenditures related to new product development, and significant product enhancement and/or upgrade activities are expensed as incurred and are separately reported in the Consolidated Statements of Earnings.
Income taxes	Income taxes: Deferred income taxes are provided for the temporary differences between the financial reporting basis and the tax basis of Woodward’s assets, liabilities, and certain unrecognized gains and losses recorded in accumulated other comprehensive (losses) earnings. Woodward provides for taxes that may be payable if undistributed earnings of overseas subsidiaries were to be remitted to the United States, except for those earnings that it considers to be indefinitely invested.
Cash equivalents	Cash equivalents: Highly liquid investments purchased with an original maturity of three months or less are considered to be cash equivalents. Cash and cash equivalents are maintained with multiple financial institutions. Generally, these deposits may be redeemed upon demand and are maintained with financial institutions with reputable credit and therefore bear minimal credit risk. Woodward holds cash and cash equivalents at financial institutions in excess of amounts covered by the Federal Depository Insurance Corporation (the “FDIC”), sometimes invests excess cash in money market funds or other highly liquid investments not insured by the FDIC, and holds cash and cash equivalents outside the United States that are not insured by the FDIC.
Accounts receivable	Accounts receivable: Almost all of Woodward’s sales are made on credit and result in accounts receivable, which are recorded at the amount invoiced and are generally not collateralized. In the normal course of business, not all accounts receivable are collected and, therefore, an allowance for uncollectible amounts is provided equal to the amount that Woodward believes ultimately will not be collected, either from credit risk or other adjustments to the original selling price or anticipated cash discounts. In establishing the amount of the allowance related to the credit risk of accounts receivable, customer-specific information is considered related to delinquent accounts, past loss experience, bankruptcy filings, deterioration in the customer’s operating results or financial position, and current economic conditions. Bad debt losses are deducted from the allowance, and the related accounts receivable balances are written off when the receivables are deemed uncollectible. Recoveries of accounts receivable previously written off are recognized when received. The allowance associated with anticipated other adjustments to the selling price or cash discounts is also established and is included in the allowance for uncollectible amounts. In establishing this amount, both customer-specific information as well as historical experience is considered. In coordination with its customers and when terms are considered favorable to Woodward, Woodward from time to time transfers ownership to collect amounts due to Woodward for outstanding accounts receivable to third parties in exchange for cash. When the transfer of accounts receivable meets the criteria of F inancial A ccounting S tandards B oard (“FASB”) Accounting Standards Codification (“ ASC’) Topic 860-10, “Transfers and Servicing,” and are without recourse, it is recognized as a sale and the accounts receivable is derecognized. Consistent with common business practice in China, Woodward’s Chinese subsidiary accepts from Chinese customers, in settlement of certain customer accounts receivable, bankers’ acceptance notes issued by Chinese banks that are believed to be creditworthy. Bankers’ acceptance notes are financial instruments issued by Chinese financial institutions as part of financing arrangements between the financial institution and a customer of the financial institution. Bankers’ acceptance notes represent a commitment by the issuing financial institution to pay a certain amount of money at a specified future maturity date to the legal owner of the bankers’ acceptance note as of the maturity date. The maturity date of bankers’ acceptance notes varies, but it is Woodward’s policy to only accept bankers’ acceptance notes with maturity dates no more than 180 days from the date of Woodward’s receipt of such draft. The issuing financial institution is the obligor, not Woodward’s customers. Upon Woodward’s acceptance of a banker’s acceptance note from a customer, such customer has no further obligation to pay Woodward for the related accounts receivable balance. Woodward only accepts bankers’ acceptance notes issued by banks that are believed to be creditworthy and to which the credit risks associated with the bankers’ acceptance notes are believed to be minimal.
Inventories	Inventories: Inventories are valued at the lower of cost or net realizable value, with cost being determined using methods that approximate a first-in, first-out basis.
Short-term Investments Policy [Policy Text Block]	Short-term investments: From time to time, certain of Woodward’s foreign subsidiaries will invest excess cash in short-term time deposits with a fixed maturity date of longer than three months but less than one year from the date of the deposit. Woodward believes that the investments are with creditworthy financial institutions. Amounts with maturities of less than 365 days are classified as “Other current assets.”
Property, plant and equipment	Property, plant, and equipment: Property, plant, and equipment are recorded at cost and are depreciated over the estimated useful lives of the assets. Assets are generally depreciated using the straight-line method. Assets are tested for recoverability whenever events or circumstances indicate the carrying value may not be recoverable. Estimated lives over which fixed assets are generally depreciated at September 30, 2018 were as follows:    Land improvements 3 - 20 years  Buildings and improvements 3 - 40 years  Leasehold improvements 1 - 10 years  Machinery and production equipment 3 - 20 years  Computer equipment and software 1 - 10 years  Office furniture and equipment 3 - 10 years  Other 3 - 10 years Included in computer equipment and software are Woodward’s enterprise resource planning (“ERP”) systems, which have an estimated useful life of 10 years. All other computer equipment and software is generally depreciated over three to five years.
Purchase accounting	Purchase accounting: Business combinations are accounted for using the purchase method of accounting. Under the purchase method, assets and liabilities, including intangible assets, are recorded at their fair values as of the acquisition date. Acquisition costs in excess of amounts assigned to assets acquired and liabilities assumed are recorded as goodwill. Transaction-related costs associated with business combinations are expensed as incurred.
Goodwill	Goodwill: Woodward tests goodwill for impairment at the reporting unit level on an annual basis and more often if an event occurs or circumstances change that would more likely than not reduce the fair value of a reporting unit below its carrying amount. Based on the relevant U.S. GAAP authoritative guidance, Woodward aggregates components of a single operating segment into a reporting unit, if appropriate. The impairment tests consist of comparing the implied fair value of each reporting unit with its carrying amount that includes goodwill. If the carrying amount of the reporting unit exceeds its implied fair value, Woodward compares the implied fair value of goodwill with the recorded carrying amount of goodwill. If the carrying amount of goodwill exceeds the implied fair value of goodwill, an impairment loss would be recognized to reduce the carrying amount to its implied fair value. Based on the results of Woodward’s goodwill impairment testing it has recorded no impairment charges in the year ended September 30, 2018 or since the goodwill was originally recognized.
Other intangibles	Other intangibles: Other intangibles are recognized apart from goodwill whenever an acquired intangible asset arises from contractual or other legal rights, or whenever it is capable of being separated or divided from the acquired entity and sold, transferred, licensed, rented, or exchanged, either individually or in combination with a related contract, asset, or liability. Woodward amortizes the cost of other intangibles over their useful lives unless such lives are deemed indefinite. The cost of amortizable other intangibles are amortized over their respective useful life using patterns that reflect the periods over which the economic benefits of the assets are expected to be realized. Amortization expense is allocated to cost of goods sold and selling, general, and administrative expenses based on the nature of the intangible asset. Amortizable other intangible assets are reviewed for impairment whenever an event occurs or circumstances change indicating that the related carrying amount of the other intangible asset may not be recoverable. Impairment losses are recognized if the carrying amount of an intangible is both not recoverable and exceeds its fair value. Intangible assets with indefinite lives are tested annually for impairment and written down to fair value as required. Woodward has recorded no impairment charges related to its other intangibles as of September 30, 2018 or since the other intangibles originally recorded. Estimated lives over which intangible assets are amortized at September 30, 2018 were as follows:     Backlog 1 year  Customer relationships and contracts 9 - 30 years  Intellectual property 10 - 17 years  Process technology 8 - 30 years  Other 3 - 15 years 
Impairment of long-lived assets	Impairment of long-lived assets: Woodward reviews the carrying amount of its long-lived assets or asset groups to be used in operations whenever events or changes in circumstances indicate that the carrying amount of the assets might not be recoverable. Factors that would necessitate an impairment assessment include a significant adverse change in the extent or manner in which an asset is used, a significant adverse change in legal factors or the business climate that could affect the value of the asset, or a significant decline in the observable market value of an asset, among others. If such facts indicate a potential impairment, the Company would assess the recoverability of an asset group by determining if the carrying amount of the asset group exceeds the sum of the projected undiscounted cash flows expected to result from the use and eventual disposition of the assets over the remaining economic life of the primary asset in the asset group. If the recoverability test indicates that the carrying amount of the asset group is not recoverable, the Company will estimate the fair value of the asset group using appropriate valuation methodologies, which would typically include an estimate of discounted cash flows. Any impairment would be measured as the difference between the asset groups carrying amount and its estimated fair value. There were no impairment charges recorded in fiscal years 2018, 2017 or 2016.
Investments in marketable equity securities	Investment in marketable equity securities: Woodward holds marketable equity securities related to its deferred compensation program. Based on Woodward’s intentions regarding these instruments, marketable equity securities are classified as trading securities. The trading securities are reported at fair value, with realized gains and losses recognized in “Other (income) expense, net.” The trading securities are included in “Other assets.” The associated obligation to provide benefits under the deferred compensation program is included in “Other liabilities.”
Investments in unconsolidated subsidiaries	Investments in unconsolidated subsidiaries: Investments in, and operating results of, entities in which Woodward does not have a controlling financial interest or the ability to exercise significant influence over the operations are included in the financial statements using the cost method of accounting. Investments and operating results of entities in which Woodward does not have a controlling interest but does have the ability to exercise significant influence over operations are included in the financial statements using the equity method of accounting.
Derivatives	Derivatives: The Company is exposed to various market risks, including the effect of changes in interest rates, foreign currency exchange rates, changes in certain commodity prices and fluctuations in various producer indices. From time to time, Woodward enters into derivative instruments for risk management purposes only, including derivatives designated as accounting hedges and/or those utilized as economic hedges. Woodward does not enter into or issue derivatives for trading or speculative purposes. To mitigate interest rate risk, the Company has utilized derivative instruments, such as treasury lock agreements to lock in fixed rates on future debt issuances, which qualify as cash flow or fair value hedges to mitigate the risk of variability in cash flows related to future interest payments attributable to changes in the designated benchmark rate. The Company records all such interest rate hedge instruments on the balance sheet at fair value. Cash flows related to the instrument designated as a qualifying hedge are reflected in the accompanying Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows in the same categories as the cash flows from the items being hedged. Accordingly, cash flows relating to the settlement of interest rate derivatives hedging the forecasted future interest payments on debt have been reflected upon settlement as a component of financing cash flows. The resulting gain or loss from such settlement is deferred to other comprehensive income and reclassified to interest expense over the term of the underlying debt. This reclassification of the deferred gains and losses impacts the interest expense recognized on the underlying debt that was hedged and is therefore reflected as a component of operating cash flows in periods subsequent to settlement. The periodic settlement of interest rate derivatives hedging outstanding variable rate debt is recorded as an adjustment to interest expense and is therefore reflected as a component of operating cash flows. From time to time, in order to hedge against foreign currency exposure, Woodward designates certain non-derivative financial instrument loans as net investment hedges. Foreign exchange gains or losses on these loans are recognized in foreign currency translation adjustments within total comprehensive (losses) earnings. Also, to hedge against the foreign currency exposure attributable to the spot remeasurement its Euro denominated intercompany loan s, Woodward has entered into derivative instruments in fair value hedging relationships, and derivative instruments in cash flow hedging relationships to hedge the risk of variability in cash flows attributable to the foreign currency exchange risk of cash flows for future principal and interest payments associated with its Euro denominated intercompany loans. Further information on net investment hedges and derivative instruments in fair value and cash flow hedging relationships, including the Company’s policy in accounting for these derivatives, can be found at Note 7, Derivative instruments and hedging activities .
Financial Instruments	Financial instruments: The Company’s financial instruments include cash and cash equivalents, short-term investments, investments in the deferred compensation program, notes receivable from municipalities, investments in term deposits, cross currency interest rate swaps and debt. Because of their short-term maturity, the carrying amount of cash and cash equivalents, and short-term debt approximate fair value. The fair value of investments in the deferred compensation program are adjusted to fair value based on the quoted market prices for the investments in the various mutual funds owned. The fair value of the long-term notes from municipalities are estimated based on a model that discounts future principal and interest payments received at interest rates available to the Company at the end of the period for similarly rated municipal notes of similar maturity. The fair value of term deposits are estimated based on a model that discounts future principal and interest payments received at interest rates available to the Company at the end of the period for similar term deposits with the same maturity in the same jurisdictions. The fair value of the cross currency interest rate swaps are determined using a market approach that is based on observable inputs other than quoted market prices, including contract terms, interest rates, currency rates, and other market factors. The fair value of long-term debt is estimated based on a model that discounts future principal and interest payments at interest rates available to the Company at the end of the period for similar debt with the same maturity. Further information on the fair value of financial instruments can be found at Note 6, Financial instruments and fair value measurements . Financial assets and liabilities recorded at fair value in the Consolidated Balance Sheets are categorized based upon a fair value hierarchy established by U.S. GAAP, which prioritizes the inputs used to measure fair value into the following levels: Level 1: Inputs based on quoted market prices in active markets for identical assets or liabilities at the measurement date. Level 2: Quoted prices included in Level 1, such as quoted prices for similar assets or liabilities in active markets; quoted prices for identical or similar assets and liabilities in markets that are not active; or other inputs that are observable and can be corroborated by observable market data. Level 3: Inputs reflect management’s best estimates and assumptions of what market participants would use in pricing the asset or liability at the measurement date. The inputs are unobservable in the market and significant to the valuation of the instruments.
Postretirement benefits	Postretirement benefits: The Company provides various benefits to certain current and former employees through defined benefit pension and postretirement plans. For financial reporting purposes, net periodic benefits expense and related obligations are calculated using a number of significant actuarial assumptions. Changes in net periodic expense and funding status may occur in the future due to changes in these assumptions. The funded status of defined pension and postretirement plans recognized in the statement of financial position is measured as the difference between the fair market value of the plan assets and the benefit obligation. For a defined benefit pension plan, the benefit obligation is the projected benefit obligation; for any ot her defined benefit postretirement plan, such as a retiree health care plan, the benefit obligation is the accumulated benefit obligation. Any over-funded status is recognized as an asset and any underfunded status is recognized as a liability. Projected benefit obligation is the actuarial present value as of the measurement date of all benefits attributed by the plan benefit formula to employee service rendered before the measurement date using assumptions as to future compensation levels if the plan benefit formula is based on those future compensation levels. The accumulated benefit obligation is the actuarial present value of benefits (whether vested or unvested) attributed by the plan benefit formula to employee service rendered before the measurement date and based on employee service and compensation, if applicable, prior to that date. The accumulated benefit obligation differs from the projected benefit obligation in that it includes no assumption about future compensation levels
Deferred Compensation, Excluding Share-based Payments and Retirement Benefits [Member]
Accounting Policies [Line Items]
Deferred compensation	Deferred compensation: The Company maintains a deferred compensation plan, or “rabbi trust,” as part of its overall compensation package for certain employees. Deferred compensation obligations will be settled either by delivery of a fixed number of shares of Woodward’s common stock (in accordance with certain eligible members’ irrevocable elections) or in cash. Woodward has contributed shares of its common stock into a trust established for the future settlement of deferred compensation obligations that are payable in shares of Woodward’s common stock. Common stock held by the trust is reflected in the Consolidated Balance Sheet as “Treasury stock held for deferred compensation” and the related deferred compensation obligation is reflected as a separate component of equity in amounts equal to the fair value of the common stock at the dates of contribution. These accounts are not adjusted for subsequent changes in the fair value of the common stock. Deferred compensation obligations that will be settled in cash are accounted for on an accrual basis in accordance with the terms of the underlying contract and are reflected in the Consolidated Balance Sheet as “Other liabilities.”

Operatons and summary of signif

Operatons and summary of significant accounting policies (Table)	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2018
Basis of Presentation
Schedule of Accounts Receivable	   September 30, September 30,  2018 2017  Accounts receivable from:  Customers $ 412,567 $ 367,715  Other (Chinese financial institutions) 23,191 38,243  Allowance for uncollectible customer amounts (3,938) (3,776)  $ 431,820 $ 402,182 
Schedule of Property, Plant and Equipment Useful Lives	   Land improvements 3 - 20 years  Buildings and improvements 3 - 40 years  Leasehold improvements 1 - 10 years  Machinery and production equipment 3 - 20 years  Computer equipment and software 1 - 10 years  Office furniture and equipment 3 - 10 years  Other 3 - 10 years 
Schedule of Finite-Lived Intangible Assets Useful Lives	   Backlog 1 year  Customer relationships and contracts 9 - 30 years  Intellectual property 10 - 17 years  Process technology 8 - 30 years  Other 3 - 15 years 

Earnings Per Share (Tables)

Earnings Per Share (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2018
Earnings Per Share
Reconciliation of Net Earnings to Net Earnings Per Share Basic and Diluted	   Year Ended September 30,  2018 2017 2016  Numerator:  Net earnings $ 180,378 $ 200,507 $ 180,838  Denominator:  Basic shares outstanding 61,493 61,366 61,893  Dilutive effect of stock options and restricted stock 2,383 2,146 1,663  Diluted shares outstanding 63,876 63,512 63,556  Income per common share:  Basic earnings per share $ 2.93 $ 3.27 $ 2.92  Diluted earnings per share $ 2.82 $ 3.16 $ 2.85 
Anti-dilutive Stock Options Excluded from Computation of Earnings Per Share	   Year Ended September 30,  2018 2017 2016  Options 760 68 -  Weighted-average option price $ 78.72 $ 63.23 $ n/a 
Schedule of Treasury Stock Shares Held for Deferred Compensation Included in Basic and Diluted Shares Outstanding	   Year Ended September 30,  2018 2017 2016  Weighted-average treasury stock shares held for deferred compensation obligations 198 180 171 

Business Acquisitions (Tables)

Business Acquisitions (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2018
Business Acquisition [Line Items]
Schedule of Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Future Amortization Expense	   Year Ending September 30:  2019 $ 59,187  2020 40,266  2021 41,320  2022 39,114  2023 38,056  Thereafter 415,605  $ 633,548 
Business Acquisition, Acquiree - L'Orange [Member]
Business Acquisition [Line Items]
Schedule of the Purchase Price	  Cash paid to Sellers $ 780,401  Less acquired cash and restricted cash (9,286)  Total purchase price $ 771,115 
Schedule of assets acquired and liabililties assumed	   Accounts receivable $ 26,538  Inventories (1) 72,392  Other current assets 1,385  Property, plant, and equipment 89,772  Goodwill 257,447  Intangible assets 573,427  Total assets acquired 1,020,961  Other current liabilities 41,997  Deferred income tax liabilities 166,927  Other noncurrent liabilities 40,922  Total liabilities assumed 249,846  Net assets acquired $ 771,115 (1) Inventories include a $16,324 adjustment to state work in progress and finished goods inventories at their fair value as of the acquisition date. The entire inventory fair value adjustment was recognized as a non-cash increase to cost of goods sold ratably over the estimated inventory turnover period during the year ending September 30, 2018 .
Schedule of Finite-Lived and Indefinite-Lived Intangible Assets Acquired	   Estimated Amounts Weighted-Average Useful Life Amortization Method  Intangible assets with finite lives:  Customer relationships and contracts $ 388,705 22 years Straight-line  Process technology 74,260 22 years Straight-line  Backlog 42,932 1 year Accelerated  Other 232 3 years Straight-line  Intangible asset with indefinite life:  Trade name 67,298 Indefinite Not amortized  Total $ 573,427 
Schedule of Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Future Amortization Expense	   Year Ending September 30:  2019 $ 36,046  2020 19,900  2021 22,920  2022 22,868  2023 22,868  Thereafter 362,089  $ 486,691 
Schedule of Unaudited Pro Forma Results	    Year Ended Year Ended  September 30, 2018 September 30, 2017  As reported Pro forma As reported Pro forma  Net sales $ 2,325,873 $ 2,549,874 $ 2,098,685 $ 2,380,572  Net earnings 180,378 221,193 200,507 173,962  Earnings per share:  Basic earnings per share $ 2.93 $ 3.60 $ 3.27 $ 2.83  Diluted earnings per share 2.82 3.46 3.16 2.74 

Financial Instruments and Fai_2

Financial Instruments and Fair Value Measurements (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2018
Financial Instruments and Fair Value Measurments
Financial Assets that are Measured at Fair Value on a Recurring Basis	   At September 30, 2018 At September 30, 2017  Level 1 Level 2 Level 3 Total Level 1 Level 2 Level 3 Total  Financial assets:  Cash $ 59,838 $ - $ - $ 59,838 $ 79,822 $ - $ - $ 79,822  Investments in reverse repurchase agreements 4,582 - - 4,582 1 - - 1  Investments in term deposits with foreign banks 19,174 - - 19,174 7,729 - - 7,729  Equity securities 19,730 - - 19,730 16,600 - - 16,600  Total financial assets $ 103,324 $ - $ - $ 103,324 $ 104,152 $ - $ - $ 104,152   Financial liabilities:  Cross currency interest rate swaps $ - $ 23,000 $ - $ 23,000 $ - $ - $ - $ -  Total financial liabilities $ - $ 23,000 $ - $ 23,000 $ - $ - $ - $ -  
Estimated Fair Values of Financial Instruments	   At September 30, 2018 At September 30, 2017  Fair Value Hierarchy Level Estimated Fair Value Carrying Cost Estimated Fair Value Carrying Cost  Assets:  Notes receivable from municipalities 2 $ 13,458 $ 13,462 $ 15,848 $ 14,507  Investments in short-term time deposits 2 8,883 8,874 8,227 8,223  Liabilities:  Long-term debt 2 $ (1,094,987) $ (1,095,292) $ (592,317) $ (582,080) 

Supplemental Statements of Ca_2

Supplemental Statements of Cash Flows Information (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2018
Supplemental Statements of Cash Flows Information
Schedule of Cash Flow Supplemental Disclosures	   Year Ended September 30,  2018 2017 2016  Interest paid, net of amounts capitalized $ 29,677 $ 27,752 $ 34,500  Income taxes paid 44,831 33,926 99,468  Income tax refunds received 1,976 997 2,350  Non-cash activities:  Purchases of property, plant and equipment on account 11,982 17,327 10,705  Property, plant and equipment acquired by capital lease - - 1,653  Common shares issued from treasury to settle employee liabilities - 1,767 -  Common shares issued from treasury to settle benefit obligations (Note 19) 14,741 14,014 13,999  Cashless exercise of stock options - 1,473 753 

Inventories (Tables)

Inventories (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2018
Inventories
Schedule of Inventories	    September 30, September 30,  2018 2017  Raw materials $ 80,999 $ 59,034  Work in progress 118,010 103,790  Component parts (1) 298,820 262,755  Finished goods 51,767 47,926  $ 549,596 $ 473,505  (1) Component parts include items that can be sold separately as finished goods or included in the manufacture of other products.

Property, Plant, and Equipmen_2

Property, Plant, and Equipment, Net (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2018
Property, Plant, and Equipment, Net
Schedule of Property Plant and Equipment, Net	   September 30, September 30,  2018 2017  Land and land improvements $ 94,146 $ 88,326  Buildings and building improvements 565,065 514,453  Leasehold improvements 17,954 16,142  Machinery and production equipment 668,986 543,641  Computer equipment and software 124,788 124,723  Office furniture and equipment 31,533 24,308  Other 19,366 19,393  Construction in progress 103,036 111,910  1,624,874 1,442,896  Less accumulated depreciation (564,869) (520,853)  Property, plant, and equipment, net $ 1,060,005 $ 922,043 
Schedule of Depreciation Expense	   Year Ended September 30,  2018 2017 2016  Depreciation expense $ 71,389 $ 55,140 $ 41,550 
Schedule of Capitalized Interest	   Year Ended September 30,  2018 2017 2016  Capitalized interest $ 2,187 $ 2,008 $ 5,455 

Goodwill (Tables)

Goodwill (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2018
Goodwill Disclosure
Schedule of Goodwill	   September 30, 2017 Additions Effects of Foreign Currency Translation September 30, 2018  Aerospace $ 455,423 $ - $ - $ 455,423  Industrial 101,122 257,447 (742) 357,827  Consolidated $ 556,545 $ 257,447 $ (742) $ 813,250   September 30, 2016 Additions Effects of Foreign Currency Translation September 30, 2017  Aerospace $ 455,423 $ - $ - $ 455,423  Industrial 100,261 - 861 101,122  Consolidated $ 555,684 $ - $ 861 $ 556,545 

Intangible Assets, Net (Tables)

Intangible Assets, Net (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2018
Intangible Assets, Net
Schedule of Finite-lived and Indefinite-lived Intangible Assets by Major Class	   September 30, 2018 September 30, 2017  Gross Carrying Value Accumulated Amortization Net Carrying Amount Gross Carrying Value Accumulated Amortization Net Carrying Amount  Intangible assets with finite lives:  Customer relationships and contracts:  Aerospace $ 281,683 $ (166,719) $ 114,964 $ 282,225 $ (151,155) $ 131,070  Industrial 429,880 (35,856) 394,024 40,962 (34,407) 6,555  Total $ 711,563 $ (202,575) $ 508,988 $ 323,187 $ (185,562) $ 137,625   Intellectual property:  Aerospace $ - $ - $ - $ - $ - $ -  Industrial 19,448 (18,587) 861 19,422 (18,196) 1,226  Total $ 19,448 $ (18,587) $ 861 $ 19,422 $ (18,196) $ 1,226   Process technology:  Aerospace $ 76,372 $ (54,874) $ 21,498 $ 76,605 $ (49,124) $ 27,481  Industrial 97,154 (20,373) 76,781 22,950 (17,756) 5,194  Total $ 173,526 $ (75,247) $ 98,279 $ 99,555 $ (66,880) $ 32,675   Backlog:  Aerospace $ - $ - $ - $ - $ - $ -  Industrial 42,955 (18,006) 24,949 - - -  Total $ 42,955 $ (18,006) $ 24,949 $ - $ - $ -   Other intangibles:  Aerospace $ - $ - $ - $ - $ - $ -  Industrial 1,629 (1,158) 471 1,312 (956) 356  Total $ 1,629 $ (1,158) $ 471 $ 1,312 $ (956) $ 356   Intangible asset with indefinite life:  Tradename:  Aerospace $ - $ - $ - $ - $ - $ -  Industrial 67,335 - 67,335 - - -  Total $ 67,335 $ - $ 67,335 $ - $ - $ -   Total intangibles:  Aerospace $ 358,055 $ (221,593) $ 136,462 $ 358,830 $ (200,279) $ 158,551  Industrial 658,401 (93,980) 564,421 84,646 (71,315) 13,331  Consolidated Total $ 1,016,456 $ (315,573) $ 700,883 $ 443,476 $ (271,594) $ 171,882 
Schedule of Finite-Lived Intangible Assets Amortization Expense	   Year Ended September 30,  2018 2017 2016  Amortization expense $ 44,742 $ 25,777 $ 27,486 
Schedule of Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Future Amortization Expense	   Year Ending September 30:  2019 $ 59,187  2020 40,266  2021 41,320  2022 39,114  2023 38,056  Thereafter 415,605  $ 633,548 

Credit Facilities, Short-term_2

Credit Facilities, Short-term Borrowings and Long-term Debt (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2018
Debt Disclosure
Short-term Borrowings and Availability Under Various Short-term Credit Facilities	   Total availability Outstanding letters of credit and guarantees Outstanding borrowings Remaining availability  Revolving credit facility $ 1,000,000 $ (11,484) $ (266,541) $ 721,975  Foreign lines of credit and overdraft facilities 7,440 - - 7,440  Foreign performance guarantee facilities 1,783 (1,536) - 247  Other short-term borrowings 3,635 - (3,635) -  $ 1,012,858 $ (13,020) $ (270,176) $ 729,662 
Schedule of Long-term Debt Instruments [Table Text Block]	   September 30, September 30,  2018 2017  Long-term portion of revolving credit facility - Floating rate (LIBOR plus 0.85% - 1.65%), due April 2020; unsecured $ 116,541 $ -  Series D notes – 6.39%, due October 2018; unsecured 100,000 100,000  Series F notes – 8.24%, due April 2019; unsecured 43,000 43,000  Series G notes – 3.42%, due November 2020; unsecured 50,000 50,000  Series H notes – 4.03%, due November 2023; unsecured 25,000 25,000  Series I notes – 4.18%, due November 2025; unsecured 25,000 25,000  Series J notes – Floating rate (LIBOR plus 1.25%), due November 2020; unsecured 50,000 50,000  Series K notes – 4.03%, due November 2023; unsecured 50,000 50,000  Series L notes – 4.18%, due November 2025; unsecured 50,000 50,000  Series M notes – 1.12% due September 2026; unsecured 46,437 47,270  Series N notes – 1.31% due September 2028; unsecured 89,393 90,995  Series O notes – 1.57% due September 2031; unsecured 49,921 50,815  Series P notes – 4.27% due May 2025; unsecured 85,000 -  Series Q notes – 4.35% due May 2027; unsecured 85,000 -  Series R notes – 4.41% due May 2029; unsecured 75,000 -  Series S notes – 4.46% due May 2030; unsecured 75,000 -  Series T notes – 4.61% due May 2033; unsecured 80,000 -  Unamortized debt issuance costs (2,895) (1,794)  Total long-term debt 1,092,397 580,286  Less: Current portion of long-term debt - -  Long-term debt, less current portion $ 1,092,397 $ 580,286 
Schedule of Future Principal Payments of Long-term Debt [Table Text Block]	   Year Ending September 30:  2019 $ 143,000  2020 -  2021 100,000  2022 -  2023 -  Thereafter 735,751  $ 978,751 

Accrued Liabilities (Tables)

Accrued Liabilities (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2018
Accrued Liabilities [Line Items]
Accrued Liabilities	    At September 30,  2018 2017  Salaries and other member benefits $ 88,643 $ 91,285  Warranties 20,130 13,597  Interest payable 18,611 9,626  Current portion of acquired performance obligations and unfavorable contracts (1) 1,627 1,627  Accrued retirement benefits 3,571 2,413  Current portion of loss reserve on contractual lease commitments 1,245 1,343  Current portion of deferred income from JV formation (Note 5) 7,087 6,451  Deferred revenues 2,572 4,625  Restructuring charges 16,522 -  Taxes, other than income 21,128 14,401  Other 13,377 9,704  $ 194,513 $ 155,072   (1) In connection with Woodward’s acquisition of GE Aviation Systems LLC’s (the “Seller”) thrust reverser actuation systems business located in Duarte, California (the “Duarte Acquisition”) in fiscal year 2013, Woodward assumed current and long-term performance obligations for contractual commitments that are expected to result in future economic losses. In addition, Woodward assumed current and long-term performance obligations for services to be provided to the Seller and others, partially offset by current and long-term assets related to contractual payments due from the Seller. The current portion of both obligations is included in Accrued liabilities .
Warranties	   Twelve-Months Ended September 30,  2018 2017 2016  Warranties, beginning of period $ 13,597 $ 15,993 $ 13,741  Increases due to acquisition of L'Orange 6,045 - -  Expense, net of recoveries 5,158 9,135 9,902  Reductions for settling warranties (4,413) (11,692) (7,802)  Foreign currency exchange rate changes (257) 161 152  Warranties, end of period $ 20,130 $ 13,597 $ 15,993 
Loss Reserve On Contractual Lease Commitments [Member]
Accrued Liabilities [Line Items]
Loss Reserve & Restructuring Reserve Activity	   Twelve-Months Ended September 30,  2018 2017 2016  Loss reserve on contractual lease commitments, beginning of period $ 5,270 $ 9,242 $ 2,464  Additions - - 8,165  Payments (1,339) (1,650) (1,387)  Non-cash adjustments - (2,322) -  Loss reserve on contractual lease commitments, end of period $ 3,931 $ 5,270 $ 9,242 
Employee Severance [Member]
Accrued Liabilities [Line Items]
Loss Reserve & Restructuring Reserve Activity	  Period Activity  Balances as of October 1, 2017 Charges (gains) Cash receipts (payments) Non-cash activity Balances as of September 30, 2018  Workforce management costs associated with:  Duarte plant relocation $ - $ 12,504 $ - $ - $ 12,504  Industrial turbomachinery business realignment - 4,509 (491) - 4,018  Total $ - $ 17,013 $ (491) $ - $ 16,522 

Other Liabilities (Tables)

Other Liabilities (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2018
Other Liabilities
Schedule of Other Liabilities	     At September 30,  2018 2017  Net accrued retirement benefits, less amounts recognized within accrued liabilities $ 90,722 $ 52,211  Noncurrent portion of deferred income from JV formation (1) 235,300 236,896  Total unrecognized tax benefits 8,582 20,949  Noncurrent income taxes payable (2) 12,494 -  Acquired unfavorable contracts (3) 54 2,076  Deferred economic incentives (4) 13,038 14,574  Loss reserve on contractual lease commitments (5) 2,686 3,927  Cross currency swap derivative liability (6) 23,000 -  Other 12,179 14,165  $ 398,055 $ 344,798  (1) See Note 5, Joint venture for more information on the deferred income from JV formation. (2) See Note 17, Income taxes for more information on the noncurrent income taxes payable. (3) In connection with the Duarte Acquisition in fiscal year 2013, Woodward assumed current and long-term performance obligations for contractual commitments that are expected to result in future economic losses. The long-term portion of the acquired unfavorable contracts is included in Other liabilities. (4) Woodward receives certain economic incentives from various state and local authorities related to capital expansion projects. Such amounts are initially recorded as deferred credits and are being recognized as a reduction to pre-tax expense over the economic lives of the related capital expansion projects. (5) See Note 14, Accrued liabilities for more information on the loss reserve on contractual lease commitments . See Note 6, Financial instruments and fair value measurements for more information on the cross currency swap derivative liability.

Other (Income) Expense, Net (Ta

Other (Income) Expense, Net (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2018
Other (Income) Expense, Net
Schedule of Other (Income) Expense, Net	   Year Ended September 30,  2018 2017 2016  Equity interest in the earnings of the JV (Note 5) $ (3,339) $ (2,568) $ (6,204)  Net gain on sales of assets (1,106) (3,604) (4,431)  Rent income (170) (254) (315)  Net gain on investments in deferred compensation program (1,661) (1,833) (1,062)  Loss on forward option derivative instrument (Note 7) 5,543 - -  Other (792) (786) (294)  $ (1,525) $ (9,045) $ (12,306) 

Income Taxes K (Tables)

Income Taxes K (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2018
Income Taxes
Components of discrete income tax expense	   Year Ended  September 30, 2018  Transition Tax (provisional) $ 13,580  Net impact on U.S. deferred tax assets and liabilities (provisional) (16,038)  Net changes in deferred tax liability associated with anticipated repatriation taxes (provisional) 8,121  Total provisional impact of the enactment of the Tax Act 5,663  Impact on the U.S. net deferred tax assets from IRS audit changes and tax return adjustments 5,197  Net impact of the enactment of the Tax Act $ 10,860 
Components of Income Tax Expense (Benefit)	   Year Ended September 30,  2018 2017 2016  Current:  Federal $ 39,979 $ 17,872 $ 81,127  State 3,697 1,379 6,067  Foreign 25,968 15,118 9,689  Deferred:  Federal (10,519) 16,907 (40,801)  State (3,784) (2,561) (9,054)  Foreign (16,141) 3,525 (1,380)  $ 39,200 $ 52,240 $ 45,648 
Earnings Before Income Taxes by Geographical Area	   Year Ended September 30,  2018 2017 2016  United States $ 181,671 $ 192,220 $ 175,146  Other countries 37,907 60,527 51,340  $ 219,578 $ 252,747 $ 226,486 
Composition of Deferred Income Taxes	   At September 30,  2018 2017  Deferred tax assets:  Defined benefit plans, other postretirement $ 6,844 $ 11,947  Foreign net operating loss carryforwards 6,071 4,707  Inventory 23,549 29,444  Stock-based and other compensation 39,903 37,693  Defined benefit plans, pension 2,187 1,148  Deferred revenue 60,177 92,426  Other reserves 10,154 10,850  Tax credits and incentives 12,512 9,769  Other 9,887 7,700  Valuation allowance (4,522) (3,714)  Total deferred tax assets, net of valuation allowance 166,762 201,970  Deferred tax liabilities:  Goodwill and intangibles - net (231,223) (103,781)  Property, plant and equipment (85,459) (109,229)  Other (4,425) (2,418)  Total deferred tax liabilities (321,107) (215,428)  Net deferred tax liabilities $ (154,345) $ (13,458) 
Reconciliation of U.S. Statutory Tax Rate to Effective Tax Rate	   Year Ending September 30,  2018 2017 2016  Percent of pretax earnings  Statutory tax rate 24.5 % 35.0 % 35.0 %  State income taxes, net of federal tax benefit (0.5) (0.3) 0.4  Taxes on international activities (1.8) (7.6) (2.2)  Research credit (4.8) (3.2) (3.6)  Net excess income tax benefit from stock-based compensation (1.4) (1.4) (2.6)  Domestic production activities deduction (1.6) (1.5) (2.1)  Adjustments of prior period tax items (5.0) (0.9) (0.2)  Effect of U.S. federal corporate rate reduction on net beginning U.S. deferred tax liability (5.0) - -  Transition Tax 6.2 - -  Increased deferred tax liability associated with anticipated repatriation taxes 3.7 - -  Effect of U.S. federal corporate rate reduction on net current year U.S. deferred tax activity 2.0 - -  Retroactive extension of research credit - - (3.2)  Other items, net 1.6 0.6 (1.3)  Effective tax rate 17.9 % 20.7 % 20.2 % 
Reconciliation of the Beginning and Ending Amounts of Gross Unrecognized Tax Benefits	   Year Ending September 30,  2018 2017 2016  Beginning balance $ 20,132 $ 23,526 $ 21,469  Additions to current year tax positions 2,675 2,560 3,588  Reductions to prior year tax positions (14,458) (5,753) (2,292)  Additions to prior year tax positions 15 3,501 761  Lapse of applicable statute of limitations - (3,702) -  Ending balance $ 8,364 $ 20,132 $ 23,526 

Retirement Benefits K (Tables)

Retirement Benefits K (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2018
Defined Contribution Plan [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Schedule of Costs of Retirement Plans	   Year Ended September 30,  2018 2017 2016  Company costs $ 34,084 $ 32,008 $ 31,893 
Defined Benefit Pension Plan [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Schedule of Net Periodic Benefit Costs	   Year Ended September 30,  United States Other Countries Total  2018 2017 2016 2018 2017 2016 2018 2017 2016  Service cost $ 1,643 $ 1,675 $ 1,695 $ 1,124 $ 1,133 $ 749 $ 2,767 $ 2,808 $ 2,444  Interest cost 6,004 5,757 5,236 1,526 1,208 1,637 7,530 6,965 6,873  Expected return on plan assets (11,614) (10,529) (10,140) (2,780) (2,605) (2,659) (14,394) (13,134) (12,799)  Amortization of:  Net losses 598 1,854 1,292 291 514 246 889 2,368 1,538  Net prior service (benefit) cost 709 383 384 - - - 709 383 384  Settlement costs - - 47 - - - - - 47  Net periodic (benefit) cost $ (2,660) $ (860) $ (1,486) $ 161 $ 250 $ (27) $ (2,499) $ (610) $ (1,513) 
Schedule of Changes in Projected Benefit Obligations, Fair Value of Plan Assets, and Funded Status of Plan	   At or for the Year Ended September 30,  United States Other Countries Total  2018 2017 2018 2017 2018 2017  Changes in projected benefit obligation:  Projected benefit obligation at beginning of year $ 161,130 $ 160,892 $ 66,369 $ 72,057 $ 227,499 $ 232,949  Obligation assumed in L'Orange acquisition - - 39,257 - 39,257 -  Service cost 1,643 1,675 1,124 1,133 2,767 2,808  Interest cost 6,004 5,757 1,526 1,208 7,530 6,965  Net actuarial gains (13,128) (5,267) (383) (6,188) (13,511) (11,455)  Contribution by participants 34 55 9 14 43 69  Benefits paid (5,651) (5,676) (2,888) (2,235) (8,539) (7,911)  Plan amendments - 3,694 - - - 3,694  Foreign currency exchange rate changes - - (1,529) 380 (1,529) 380  Projected benefit obligation at end of year $ 150,032 $ 161,130 $ 103,485 $ 66,369 $ 253,517 $ 227,499   Changes in fair value of plan assets:  Fair value of plan assets at beginning of year $ 160,332 $ 145,886 $ 64,380 $ 62,926 $ 224,712 $ 208,812  Actual return (loss) on plan assets 10,627 20,067 1,407 2,542 12,034 22,609  Contributions by the Company - - 994 671 994 671  Contributions by plan participants 34 55 9 14 43 69  Benefits paid (5,651) (5,676) (2,888) (2,235) (8,539) (7,911)  Foreign currency exchange rate changes - - (1,522) 462 (1,522) 462  Fair value of plan assets at end of year $ 165,342 $ 160,332 $ 62,380 $ 64,380 $ 227,722 $ 224,712  Net over/(under)funded status at end of year $ 15,310 $ (798) $ (41,105) $ (1,989) $ (25,795) $ (2,787) 
Schedule of Accumulated Benefit Obligations In Excess of and Less Than Fair Value of Plan Assets	   Plans with accumulated benefit obligation in excess of plan assets Plans with accumulated benefit obligation less than plan assets  At September 30, At September 30,  2018 2017 2018 2017  Projected benefit obligation $ (65,938) $ (82,447) $ (187,579) $ (145,052)  Accumulated benefit obligation (65,915) (80,759) (184,864) (144,006)  Fair value of plan assets 23,385 77,036 204,337 147,676 
Schedule of Amounts Recognized in Balance Sheet and Other Comprehensive Income (Loss)	   At or for the Year Ended September 30,  United States Other Countries Total  2018 2017 2018 2017 2018 2017  Amounts recognized in statement of financial position consist of:  Other non-current assets $ 17,068 $ 1,726 $ 1,090 $ 897 $ 18,158 $ 2,623  Accrued liabilities - - (1,322) (3) (1,322) (3)  Other non-current liabilities (1,758) (2,524) (40,873) (2,883) (42,631) (5,407)  Net over/(under) funded status at end of year $ 15,310 $ (798) $ (41,105) $ (1,989) $ (25,795) $ (2,787)   Amounts recognized in accumulated other comprehensive income consist of:  Unrecognized net prior service cost $ 6,459 $ 7,169 $ - $ - $ 6,459 $ 7,169  Unrecognized net losses 4,285 17,023 14,529 14,198 18,814 31,221  Total amounts recognized 10,744 24,192 14,529 14,198 25,273 38,390  Deferred taxes (5,892) (9,224) (5,081) (5,016) (10,973) (14,240)  Amounts recognized in accumulated other comprehensive losses $ 4,852 $ 14,968 $ 9,448 $ 9,182 $ 14,300 $ 24,150 
Schedule of Changes in Plan Assets and Benefit Obligations Recorded in Other Comprehensive Income (Loss)	   Year Ended September 30,  United States Other Countries Total  2018 2017 2018 2017 2018 2017  Accumulated other comprehensive losses at beginning of year $ 24,192 $ 37,539 $ 14,198 $ 20,795 $ 38,390 $ 58,334  Net (gain) loss (12,141) (14,805) 990 (6,125) (11,151) (20,930)  Amortization of:  Net losses (598) (1,854) (292) (515) (890) (2,369)  Prior service benefit (cost) (709) 3,312 - - (709) 3,312  Foreign currency exchange rate changes - - (367) 43 (367) 43  Accumulated other comprehensive losses at end of year $ 10,744 $ 24,192 $ 14,529 $ 14,198 $ 25,273 $ 38,390 
Schedule of Amounts Expected to be Amortized from Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) and Reported as a Component of Net Periodic Benefit Cost During the Next Fiscal Year	   United States Other Countries Total  Prior service cost $ 709 $ - $ 709  Net actuarial losses 617 289 906 
Schedule of Expected Benefit Payments	   Year Ending September 30, United States Other Countries Total  2019 $ 6,531 $ 3,474 $ 10,005  2020 7,217 3,182 10,399  2021 7,819 3,445 11,264  2022 8,342 3,358 11,700  2023 8,840 3,911 12,751  2024 – 2028 49,244 19,640 68,884 
Schedule of Allocation of Plan Assets, Actual and Target Allocations	   At September 30,  2018 2017  Percentage of Plan Assets Target Allocation Ranges Percentage of Plan Assets Target Allocation Ranges  United States:  Asset Class  Equity Securities 65.1% 41.5% - 81.5% 64.6% 41.2% - 81.2%  Debt Securities 33.1% 28.5% - 48.5% 35.2% 28.8% - 48.8%  Other 1.8% 0.0% 0.2% 0.0%  100.0% 100.0%  United Kingdom:  Asset Class  Equity Securities 44.8% 30.0% - 60.0% 46.1% 30.0% - 60.0%  Debt Securities 54.8% 45.0% - 70.0% 53.8% 45.0% - 70.0%  Other 0.4% 0.0% 0.1% 0.0%  100.0% 100.0%  Japan:  Asset Class  Equity Securities 41.0% 36.0% - 44.0% 41.0% 36.0% - 44.0%  Debt Securities 58.1% 55.0% - 63.0% 58.1% 55.0% - 63.0%  Other 0.9% 0.0% - 2.0% 0.9% 0.0% - 2.0%  100.0% 100.0% 
Schedule of Allocation of Plan Assets, Fair Value Hierarchy	   At September 30, 2018  Level 1 Level 2 Level 3  United States Other Countries United States Other Countries United States Other Countries Total  Asset Category:  Cash and cash equivalents $ 2,908 $ 317 $ - $ - $ - $ - $ 3,225  Mutual funds:  U.S. corporate bond fund 54,699 - - - - - 54,699  U.S. equity large cap fund 60,176 - - - - - 60,176  International equity large cap growth fund 47,559 - - - - - 47,559  Pooled funds:  Japanese equity securities - - - 2,506 - - 2,506  International equity securities - - - 2,214 - - 2,214  Japanese fixed income securities - - - 4,968 - - 4,968  International fixed income securities - - - 1,730 - - 1,730  Global target return equity/bond fund - - - 12,495 - - 12,495  Index linked U.K. equity fund - - - 4,326 - - 4,326  Index linked international equity fund - - - 5,973 - - 5,973  Index linked U.K. corporate bonds fund - - - 16,121 - - 16,121  Index linked U.K. government securities fund - - - 4,913 - - 4,913  Index linked U.K. long-term government securities fund - - - 6,817 - - 6,817  Total assets $ 165,342 $ 317 $ - $ 62,063 $ - $ - $ 227,722   At September 30, 2017  Level 1 Level 2 Level 3  United States Other Countries United States Other Countries United States Other Countries Total  Asset Category:  Cash and cash equivalents $ 291 $ 167 $ - $ - $ - $ - $ 458  Mutual funds:  U.S. corporate bond fund 56,388 - - - - - 56,388  U.S. equity large cap fund 54,140 - - - - - 54,140  International equity large cap growth fund 49,513 - - - - - 49,513  Pooled funds:  Japanese equity securities - - - 2,487 - - 2,487  International equity securities - - - 2,260 - - 2,260  Japanese fixed income securities - - - 4,987 - - 4,987  International fixed income securities - - - 1,730 - - 1,730  Global target return equity/bond fund - - - 13,103 - - 13,103  Index linked U.K. equity fund - - - 4,940 - - 4,940  Index linked international equity fund - - - 6,285 - - 6,285  Index linked U.K. corporate bonds fund - - - 16,540 - - 16,540  Index linked U.K. government securities fund - - - 4,980 - - 4,980  Index linked U.K. long-term government securities fund - - - 6,901 - - 6,901  Total assets $ 160,332 $ 167 $ - $ 64,213 $ - $ - $ 224,712 
Other Postretirement Benefit Plans [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Schedule of Actuarial Assumptions Used	   2018 2017 2016  Weighted-average discount rate used to determine benefit obligation at September 30 4.30 % 3.78 % 3.63 %  Weighted-average discount rate used to determine net periodic benefit cost for years ended September 30 3.80 3.63 4.01 
Schedule of Net Periodic Benefit Costs	   Year Ended September 30,  2018 2017 2016  Service cost $ 7 $ 14 $ 22  Interest cost 1,165 1,244 1,048  Amortization of:  Net losses 94 201 156  Net prior service benefit (158) (158) (158)  Curtailment gain (330) - -  Net periodic cost $ 778 $ 1,301 $ 1,068 
Schedule of Changes in Projected Benefit Obligations, Fair Value of Plan Assets, and Funded Status of Plan	   Year Ended September 30,  2018 2017  Changes in accumulated postretirement benefit obligation:  Accumulated postretirement benefit obligation at beginning of year $ 32,252 $ 35,630  Service cost 7 14  Interest cost 1,165 1,244  Premiums paid by plan participants 1,311 1,365  Net actuarial gains (2,716) (2,049)  Benefits paid (3,707) (3,964)  Curtailment (330) -  Foreign currency exchange rate changes 3 12  Accumulated postretirement benefit obligation at end of year $ 27,985 $ 32,252  Changes in fair value of plan assets:  Fair value of plan assets at beginning of year $ - $ -  Contributions by the company 2,396 2,599  Premiums paid by plan participants 1,311 1,365  Benefits paid (3,707) (3,964)  Fair value of plan assets at end of year $ - $ -  Funded status at end of year $ (27,985) $ (32,252) 
Schedule of Amounts Recognized in Balance Sheet and Other Comprehensive Income (Loss)	   Year Ended September 30,  2018 2017  Amounts recognized in statement of financial position consist of:  Accrued liabilities $ (2,249) $ (2,410)  Other non-current liabilities (25,736) (29,842)  Funded status at end of year $ (27,985) $ (32,252)   Amounts recognized in accumulated other comprehensive income consist of:  Unrecognized net prior service (benefit) cost $ (1) $ (160)  Unrecognized net (gains) losses 425 3,234  Total amounts recognized 424 3,074  Deferred taxes (518) (1,183)  Amounts recognized in accumulated other comprehensive income $ (94) $ 1,891 
Schedule of Changes in Plan Assets and Benefit Obligations Recorded in Other Comprehensive Income (Loss)	   Year Ended September 30,  2018 2017  Accumulated other comprehensive losses at beginning of year $ 3,074 $ 5,166  Net gain (2,654) (2,049)  Curtailment arising during the period (59)  Amortization of:  Net losses (95) (201)  Prior service benefit 158 158  Foreign currency exchange rate changes - -  Accumulated other comprehensive losses at end of year $ 424 $ 3,074 
Schedule of Health Care Cost Trend Rates	   2018 2017  Health care cost trend rate assumed for next year 6.50 % 6.75 %  Rate to which the cost trend rate is assumed to decline  (the ultimate trend rate) 5.00 % 5.00 %  Year that the rate reaches the ultimate trend rate 2025 2025 
Schedule of Health Care Costs Sensitivity	   Change In Health Care Cost Trend Rate  1% increase 1% decrease  Effect on projected fiscal year 2019 service and interest cost $ 106 $ (93)  Effect on accumulated postretirement benefit obligation at September 30, 2018 2,450 (2,165) 
Schedule of Future Postretirement Company Contributions	   Year Ending September 30,  2019 $ 3,615  2020 3,612  2021 3,601  2022 3,562  2023 3,498  2024 – 2028 16,124 
Multiemployer Plans, Pension [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Schedule of Costs of Retirement Plans	   Year Ended September 30,  2018 2017 2016  Company contributions $ 334 $ 292 $ 475 
UNITED STATES | Defined Benefit Pension Plan [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Schedule of Actuarial Assumptions Used	   2018 2017 2016  United States:  Weighted-average assumptions to determine benefit obligation at September 30:  Discount rate 4.35 % 3.80 % 3.65 %  Weighted-average assumptions to determine periodic benefit costs for years ended September 30:  Discount rate 3.80 3.65 4.39  Long-term rate of return on plan assets 7.39 7.38 7.62 
JAPAN | Defined Benefit Pension Plan [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Schedule of Actuarial Assumptions Used	   2018 2017 2016  Japan:  Weighted-average assumptions to determine benefit obligation at September 30:  Discount rate 0.62 % 0.58 % 0.46 %  Rate of compensation increase 2.00 2.00 2.02  Weighted-average assumptions to determine periodic benefit costs for years ended September 30:  Discount rate - service cost 0.72 0.59 1.27  Discount rate - interest cost 0.38 0.45 0.59  Rate of compensation increase 2.00 2.02 2.00  Long-term rate of return on plan assets 2.50 2.50 3.00 
UNITED KINGDOM | Defined Benefit Pension Plan [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Schedule of Actuarial Assumptions Used	   2018 2017 2016  United Kingdom:  Weighted-average assumptions to determine benefit obligation at September 30:  Discount rate 2.68 % 2.56 % 2.28 %  Rate of compensation increase 3.60 3.60 3.40  Weighted-average assumptions to determine periodic benefit costs for years ended September 30:  Discount rate - service cost 2.58 2.33 3.86  Discount rate - interest cost 2.36 2.24 3.63  Rate of compensation increase 3.60 3.40 3.40  Long-term rate of return on plan assets 4.75 4.75 5.00 
GERMANY | Defined Benefit Pension Plan [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Schedule of Actuarial Assumptions Used	   2018 2017 2016  Germany:  Weighted-average assumptions to determine benefit obligation at September 30:  Discount rate 1.87 n/a n/a  Rate of compensation increase 2.50 n/a n/a  Weighted-average assumptions to determine periodic benefit costs for years ended September 30:  Discount rate - service cost 2.05 n/a n/a  Discount rate - interest cost 1.49 n/a n/a  Rate of compensation increase 2.50 n/a n/a 

Stockholders' Equity K (Tables)

Stockholders' Equity K (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2018
Stockholders' Equity and Stock-Based Compensation [Abstract]
Dividends Declared and Paid	   Year Ended September 30,  2018 2017 2016  Dividends declared and paid $ 34,003 $ 29,745 $ 26,606  Dividend per share amount 0.5525 0.4850 0.4300 
Stock-based Compensation Expense Recognized	   Year Ended September 30,  2018 2017 2016  Employee stock-based compensation expense $ 18,229 $ 17,282 $ 15,122 
Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value of Options Granted	   Year Ended September 30,  2018 2017 2016  Weighted-average grant date fair value of options $ 25.66 $ 24.98 $ 13.39 
Schedule of Share-based Payment Award, Stock Options, Valuation Assumptions [Table Text Block]	   Year Ended September 30,  2018 2017 2016  Weighted-average exercise price per share $ 78.91 $ 62.74 $ 40.26  Weighted-average grant date market value of Woodward stock $ 78.91 $ 69.45 $ 40.26  Expected term (years) 6.4 - 8.7 6.0 - 8.7 6.3 - 8.7  Estimated volatility 29.1% - 32.7% 30.6% - 33.7% 34.5% - 35.1%  Estimated dividend yield 0.6% - 0.8% 0.7% 1.0%  Risk-free interest rate 2.1% - 2.8% 2.0% - 2.5% 1.7% - 2.0% 
Activity for Stock Option Awards	   Number Weighted-Average Exercise Price Per Share  Balance at September 30, 2017 5,236 $ 39.58  Options granted 750 78.91  Options exercised (334) 27.34  Options forfeited (41) 59.64  Balance at September 30, 2018 5,611 45.42 
Changes in Nonvested Stock Options	   Number Weighted-Average Grant Date Fair Value Per Share  Balance at September 30, 2017 2,072 $ 18.61  Options granted 750 25.66  Options vested (793) 17.58  Options forfeited (41) 20.80  Balance at September 30, 2018 1,988 21.64 
Stock Options Vested, Or Expected to Vest and Are Exercisable	   Number Weighted- Average Exercise Price Per Share Weighted- Average Remaining Life in Years Aggregate Intrinsic Value  Options outstanding 5,611 $ 45.42 5.6 $ 198,843  Options vested and exercisable 3,623 36.50 4.3 160,703  Options vested and expected to vest 5,551 45.17 5.6 198,108 
Other Stock Option Information	   Year Ended September 30,  2018 2017 2016  Total fair value of stock options vested $ 13,944 $ 11,639 $ 10,374  Total intrinsic value of options exercised 16,690 16,416 23,178  Cash received from exercises of stock options 9,132 14,196 15,892  Excess tax benefit realized from exercise of stock options 3,524 4,383 6,472 
Changes in Restricted Stock Awards	Changes in the restricted stock units during the fiscal year ending September 30, 2018 were as follows:   Number Fair Value per Share  Balance at September 30, 2017 - n/a  Shares granted 10 82.71  Shares vested - n/a  Shares forfeited - n/a  Balance at September 30, 2018 10 82.71 

Commitments and Contingencies (

Commitments and Contingencies (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2018
Commitments and Contingencies Disclosure
Future Minimum Lease Payments	   Year Ending September 30, Operating Leases Capital Leases  2019 $ 7,579 $ 566  2020 4,808 212  2021 4,228 118  2022 3,227 -  2023 2,542 -  Thereafter 3,636 -  Total $ 26,020 $ 896 
Rent Expense for All Operating Leases	   Year Ended September 30,  2018 2017 2016  Rent expense $ 8,348 $ 8,302 $ 7,359 
Future Minimum Unconditional Purchase Obligations	   Year Ending September 30,  2019 $ 429,409  2020 25,636  2021 1  2022 -  2023 -  Thereafter -  Total $ 455,046  

Segment Information (Tables)

Segment Information (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2018
Segment, Reporting Information [Line Items]
Consolidated Net Sales and Earnings by Segment	   Year Ended September 30,  2018 2017 2016  Segment external net sales:  Aerospace $ 1,557,988 $ 1,342,339 $ 1,233,176  Industrial 767,885 756,346 789,902  Total consolidated net sales $ 2,325,873 $ 2,098,685 $ 2,023,078  Segment earnings:  Aerospace $ 301,803 $ 257,813 $ 232,166  Industrial 47,938 78,991 82,237  Nonsegment expenses (1) (100,067) (58,352) (63,166)  Interest expense, net (30,096) (25,705) (24,751)  Consolidated earnings before income taxes $ 219,578 $ 252,747 $ 226,486  (1) Nonsegment expenses for the fiscal year ended September 30, 2018 includes restructuring charges of $17,013 . See Note 14, Accrued liabilities for further details.
Consolidated Total Assets, Depreciation and Amortization, and Capital Expenditures by Segment	   Year Ended September 30,  2018 2017 2016  Segment assets:  Aerospace $ 1,805,892 $ 1,722,789 $ 1,637,522  Industrial 1,642,462 695,264 705,169  Unallocated corporate property, plant and equipment, net 102,083 104,755 89,988  Other unallocated assets 240,212 234,301 209,683  Consolidated total assets $ 3,790,649 $ 2,757,109 $ 2,642,362   Segment depreciation and amortization:  Aerospace $ 54,828 $ 47,277 $ 40,825  Industrial 51,695 24,421 20,412  Unallocated corporate amounts 9,608 9,219 7,799  Consolidated depreciation and amortization $ 116,131 $ 80,917 $ 69,036   Segment capital expenditures:  Aerospace $ 98,358 $ 62,812 $ 90,749  Industrial 17,109 12,189 62,065  Unallocated corporate amounts 11,673 17,335 22,878  Consolidated capital expenditures $ 127,140 $ 92,336 $ 175,692 
External Net Sales by Geographical Area	   Year Ended September 30,  2018 2017 2016  United States $ 1,350,708 $ 1,211,902 $ 1,118,833  Germany 230,834 173,180 200,545  Europe (1) 323,109 305,545 337,356  Asia 283,031 288,252 228,683  Other countries 138,191 119,806 137,661  Consolidated net sales $ 2,325,873 $ 2,098,685 $ 2,023,078  (1) Includes all European countries other than Germany.
Property, Plant, and Equipment - Net by Geographical Area	   At September 30,  2018 2017  United States $ 922,734 $ 872,947  Germany 111,595 24,541  Other countries 25,676 24,555  Consolidated property, plant and equipment, net $ 1,060,005 $ 922,043 
U.S. Government Related [Member]
Segment, Reporting Information [Line Items]
U.S. Government Related Sales by Segment	   Direct U.S. Government Sales Indirect U.S. Government Sales Total U.S. Government Related Sales  Fiscal year ended September 30, 2018  Aerospace $ 84,252 $ 429,386 $ 513,638  Industrial 2,547 8,658 11,205  Total net external sales $ 86,799 $ 438,044 $ 524,843  Percentage of total net sales 4% 19% 23%   Fiscal year ended September 30, 2017  Aerospace $ 106,685 $ 362,536 $ 469,221  Industrial 3,726 10,814 14,540  Total net external sales $ 110,411 $ 373,350 $ 483,761  Percentage of total net sales 5% 18% 23%   Fiscal year ended September 30, 2016  Aerospace $ 103,026 $ 310,952 $ 413,978  Industrial 6,550 9,845 16,395  Total net external sales $ 109,576 $ 320,797 $ 430,373  Percentage of total net sales 5% 16% 21%  

Schedule II (Tables)

Schedule II (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2018
Valuation and Qualifying Accounts
Schedule II	   Column A Column B Column C Column D Column E  Additions  Description Balance at Beginning of Year Charged to Costs and Expenses Charged to Other Accounts (a) Deductions (b) Balance at End of Year  Fiscal year 2018  Allowance for uncollectible accounts $ 3,776 $ 207 $ 466 $ (511) $ 3,938  Deferred tax asset valuation allowance 3,714 73 553 182 4,522  Fiscal year 2017  Allowance for uncollectible accounts 2,540 1,063 449 (276) 3,776  Deferred tax asset valuation allowance 3,317 77 - 320 3,714  Fiscal year 2016  Allowance for uncollectible accounts 3,841 255 233 (1,789) 2,540  Deferred tax asset valuation allowance 6,804 53 - (3,540) 3,317  Notes: (a) Includes recoveries of accounts previously written off.  (b) Represents accounts receivable written off against the allowance for collectible accounts and releases of valuation reserves to income tax expense. Also included are foreign currency exchange rate adjustments. Currency transl ation adjustments resulted in a decrease in the reserves of $96 in fiscal year 2018, an increase in the reserves of $64 in fiscal year 2017, and an increase in the reserve s of $77 in fiscal year 2016.

Supplemental Quarterly Financ_2

Supplemental Quarterly Financial Data (Unaudited) (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2018
Supplemental Quarterly Financial Data [Line Items]
Quarterly Financial Information	    2018 Fiscal Quarters  First Second Third Fourth  Net sales (1) $ 470,148 $ 548,249 $ 588,117 $ 719,359  Gross margin (2)(3) 123,364 146,918 160,220 175,696  Earnings before income taxes (3)(4)(5)(6) 37,487 48,647 54,417 79,027  Net earnings (3)(4)(5)(6)(7) 18,260 38,489 49,117 74,512  Earnings per share  Basic earnings per share (3)(4)(5)(6)(7) 0.30 0.63 0.80 1.21  Diluted earnings per share (3)(4)(5)(6)(7) 0.29 0.60 0.77 1.16  Cash dividends per share 0.1250 0.1425 0.1425 0.1425   2017 Fiscal Quarters  First Second Third Fourth  Net sales $ 442,894 $ 500,381 $ 548,622 $ 606,788  Gross margin (2) 113,746 133,282 153,872 171,659  Earnings before income taxes 47,059 50,236 68,687 86,765  Net earnings 46,548 38,105 53,626 62,228  Earnings per share  Basic earnings per share 0.76 0.62 0.87 1.02  Diluted earnings per share 0.73 0.60 0.85 0.98  Cash dividends per share 0.1100 0.1250 0.1250 0.1250 Notes: 1. On June 1, 2018, Woodward acquired L’Orange. Net sales attributable to L’Orange were $24,878 and $78,027 in the third quarter and fourth quarters of fiscal year 2018, respectively. 2. Gross margin represents net sales less cost of goods sold. 3. Results for the third and fourth quarters of fiscal year 2018 include pre-tax non-cash charges of $8,299 and $26,086 , respectively, associated with the purchase accounting impacts related to the revaluation of the L’Orange inventory recognized in cost of goods sold and the amortization of the backlog intangible. 4. Results for the second, third and fourth quarters of fiscal year 2018, include pre-tax L’Orange acquisition transaction and integration costs of $1,281 , $3,077 and $850 , respectively. 5. Results for the third quarter of fiscal year 2018 include the (i) pre-tax cost associated with an at-the-money-forward option of $5,543 , (ii) pre-tax warranty and indemnity insurance costs associated with the acquisition of L’Orange of $4,293 , and (iii) pre-tax German real estate transfer tax costs associated with the acquisition of L’Orange of $3,385 . 6. The second quarter of fiscal year 2018 includes pre-tax restructuring charges totaling $17,013 , the majority of which relate to the Company’s decision to relocate its Duarte, California operations to the Company’s newly renovated Drake Campus in Fort Collins, Colorado. The remaining restructuring charges recognized during the quarter consist of workforce management costs related to aligning the Company’s industrial turbomachinery business with current market conditions. 7. In the first and third quarters of fiscal year 2018, Woodward recognized a tax expense of $14,778 and $3,671 , respectively, and tax benefit of $7,589 in the fourth quarter of fiscal year 2018, related to the transition impacts of the change in U.S. tax legislation in December 2017.
Segment Reporting [Member]
Supplemental Quarterly Financial Data [Line Items]
Quarterly Financial Information	     2018 Fiscal Quarters  First Second Third Fourth  Segment external net sales:  Aerospace $ 305,905 $ 386,343 $ 404,612 $ 461,128  Industrial (1) 164,243 161,906 183,505 258,231  Total $ 470,148 $ 548,249 $ 588,117 $ 719,359  Segment earnings:  Aerospace $ 43,553 $ 72,969 $ 82,199 $ 103,082  Industrial (2) 19,344 10,237 10,450 7,907  Nonsegment expenses (3)(4)(5) (19,023) (28,343) (30,696) (22,005)  Interest expense, net (6,387) (6,216) (7,536) (9,957)  Consolidated earnings before income taxes $ 37,487 $ 48,647 $ 54,417 $ 79,027   2017 Fiscal Quarters  First Second Third Fourth  Segment external net sales:  Aerospace $ 266,680 $ 320,526 $ 355,992 $ 399,141  Industrial 176,214 179,855 192,630 207,647  Total $ 442,894 $ 500,381 $ 548,622 $ 606,788  Segment earnings:  Aerospace $ 46,877 $ 58,227 $ 67,173 $ 85,536  Industrial 17,998 17,089 20,870 23,034  Nonsegment expenses (11,381) (18,764) (12,945) (15,262)  Interest expense, net (6,435) (6,316) (6,411) (6,543)  Consolidated earnings before income taxes $ 47,059 $ 50,236 $ 68,687 $ 86,765   1. Net Industrial segment sales attributable to L’Orange were $24,878 and $78,027 in the third and fourth quarters of fiscal year 2018, respectively. 2. Industrial segment earnings for the third and fourth quarters of fiscal year 2018 include non-cash charges of $8,299 and $26,086 , respectively, associated with the purchase accounting impacts relate to the revaluation of the L’Orange inventory recognized in cost of goods sold and the amortization of the backlog intangible. 3. Nonsegment expenses for the third quarter include (i) cost associated with an at-the-money-forward option of $5,543 , (ii) warranty and indemnity insurance costs associated with the acquisition of L’Orange of $4,293 , and (iii) German real estate transfer tax costs associated with the acquisition of L’Orange of $3,385 . 4. Nonsegment expenses for the second, third and fourth quarters of fiscal year 2018, include L’Orange acquisition transaction and integration costs of $1,281 , $3,077 and $850 , respectively. 5. Nonsegment expenses for the second quarter of fiscal year 2018 include restructuring charges totaling $17,013 , the majority of which relate to the Company’s decision to relocate its Duarte, California operations to the Company’s newly renovated Drake Campus in Fort Collins, Colorado. The remaining restructuring charges recognized during the quarter consist of workforce management costs related to aligning the Company’s industrial turbomachinery business with current market conditions.

Operations and summary of sig_3

Operations and summary of significant accounting policies (Narrative) (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended			36 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2018	Sep. 30, 2017	Sep. 30, 2016	Sep. 30, 2018
Basis of Presentation
Selling, general, and administrative expenses include net foreign currency transaction gains (losses)	$ (1,608)	$ (651)	$ 701
Goodwill, Impairment Loss	$ 0
Asset Impairment Charges				$ 0

Operations and summary of sig_4

Operations and summary of significant accounting policies (Schedule of Accounts Receivable) (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Sep. 30, 2018	Sep. 30, 2017
Accounts, Notes, Loans and Financing Receivable [Line Items]
Allowance for uncollectible customer amounts	$ (3,938)	$ (3,776)
Accounts receivable	431,820	402,182
Trade Accounts Receivable [Member]
Accounts, Notes, Loans and Financing Receivable [Line Items]
Accounts Receivable, Gross	412,567	367,715
Accounts Receivable from Chinese Financial Institution [Member]
Accounts, Notes, Loans and Financing Receivable [Line Items]
Accounts Receivable, Gross	$ 23,191	$ 38,243

Operations and summary of sig_5

Operations and summary of significant accounting policies (Schedule of property, plant, and equipment useful lives) (Details)	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2018
Enterprise Resource Planning system [Member]
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Property, Plant and Equipment, Useful Life	10 years
Minimum [Member] | Land Improvements [Member]
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Property, Plant and Equipment, Useful Life	3 years
Minimum [Member] | Building and Building Improvements [Member]
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Property, Plant and Equipment, Useful Life	3 years
Minimum [Member] | Leasehold Improvements [Member]
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Property, Plant and Equipment, Useful Life	1 year
Minimum [Member] | Machinery and Production Equipment [Member]
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Property, Plant and Equipment, Useful Life	3 years
Minimum [Member] | Computer Equipment and Software [Member]
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Property, Plant and Equipment, Useful Life	1 year
Minimum [Member] | Office furniture and equipment [Member]
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Property, Plant and Equipment, Useful Life	3 years
Minimum [Member] | Other Capitalized Property Plant and Equipment [Member]
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Property, Plant and Equipment, Useful Life	3 years
Minimum [Member] | Computer Equipment and Software, Excluding ERP system [Member]
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Property, Plant and Equipment, Useful Life	3 years
Maximum [Member] | Land Improvements [Member]
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Property, Plant and Equipment, Useful Life	20 years
Maximum [Member] | Building and Building Improvements [Member]
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Property, Plant and Equipment, Useful Life	40 years
Maximum [Member] | Leasehold Improvements [Member]
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Property, Plant and Equipment, Useful Life	10 years
Maximum [Member] | Machinery and Production Equipment [Member]
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Property, Plant and Equipment, Useful Life	20 years
Maximum [Member] | Computer Equipment and Software [Member]
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Property, Plant and Equipment, Useful Life	10 years
Maximum [Member] | Office furniture and equipment [Member]
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Property, Plant and Equipment, Useful Life	10 years
Maximum [Member] | Other Capitalized Property Plant and Equipment [Member]
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Property, Plant and Equipment, Useful Life	10 years
Maximum [Member] | Computer Equipment and Software, Excluding ERP system [Member]
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Property, Plant and Equipment, Useful Life	5 years

Operations and summary of sig_6

Operations and summary of significant accounting policies (Schedule of finite-lived intangible assets useful lives) (Details)	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2018
Minimum [Member] | Customer Relationships [Member]
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]
Finite-Lived Intangible Asset, Useful Life	9 years
Minimum [Member] | Intellectual Property [Member]
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]
Finite-Lived Intangible Asset, Useful Life	10 years
Minimum [Member] | Process Technology [Member]
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]
Finite-Lived Intangible Asset, Useful Life	8 years
Minimum [Member] | Other Intangibles [Member]
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]
Finite-Lived Intangible Asset, Useful Life	3 years
Maximum [Member] | Backlog [Member]
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]
Finite-Lived Intangible Asset, Useful Life	1 year
Maximum [Member] | Customer Relationships [Member]
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]
Finite-Lived Intangible Asset, Useful Life	30 years
Maximum [Member] | Intellectual Property [Member]
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]
Finite-Lived Intangible Asset, Useful Life	17 years
Maximum [Member] | Process Technology [Member]
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]
Finite-Lived Intangible Asset, Useful Life	30 years
Maximum [Member] | Other Intangibles [Member]
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]
Finite-Lived Intangible Asset, Useful Life	15 years

Recent Accounting Pronouncement

Recent Accounting Pronouncements (Narrative) (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2018	Sep. 30, 2017	Sep. 30, 2016
Recent Accounting Pronouncements
Rent expense for all operating leases	$ 8,348	$ 8,302	$ 7,359
Future minimum rental payments required under operating leases	26,020
Restricted Cash and Cash Equivalents	$ 3,635	$ 0

Earnings Per Share (Reconciliat

Earnings Per Share (Reconciliation of Net Earnings to Net Earnings Per Share Basic and Diluted) (Details) - USD ($) $ / shares in Units, shares in Thousands, $ in Thousands	3 Months Ended								12 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2018	Jun. 30, 2018	Mar. 31, 2018	Dec. 31, 2017	Sep. 30, 2017	Jun. 30, 2017	Mar. 31, 2017	Dec. 31, 2016	Sep. 30, 2018	Sep. 30, 2017	Sep. 30, 2016
Earnings Per Share
Net earnings	$ 74,512	$ 49,117	$ 38,489	$ 18,260	$ 62,228	$ 53,626	$ 38,105	$ 46,548	$ 180,378	$ 200,507	$ 180,838
Basic shares outstanding									61,493	61,366	61,893
Dilutive effect of stock options and restricted stock									2,383	2,146	1,663
Diluted shares outstanding									63,876	63,512	63,556
Basic earnings per share	$ 1.21	$ 0.80	$ 0.63	$ 0.30	$ 1.02	$ 0.87	$ 0.62	$ 0.76	$ 2.93	$ 3.27	$ 2.92
Diluted earnings per share	$ 1.16	$ 0.77	$ 0.60	$ 0.29	$ 0.98	$ 0.85	$ 0.60	$ 0.73	$ 2.82	$ 3.16	$ 2.85

Earnings Per Share (Anti-diluti

Earnings Per Share (Anti-dilutive Stock Options Excluded from Computation of Earnings Per Share) (Details) - $ / shares shares in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2018	Sep. 30, 2017	Sep. 30, 2016
Earnings Per Share
Options	760	68	0
Weighted-average option price	$ 78.72	$ 63.23

Earnings Per Share (Schedule of

Earnings Per Share (Schedule of Treasury Stock Shares Held for Deferred Compensation Included in Basic and Diluted Shares Outstanding) (Details) - shares shares in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2018	Sep. 30, 2017	Sep. 30, 2016
Earnings Per Share
Weighted-average treasury stock shares held for deferred compensation obligations	198	180	171

Business Acquisitions (Narrativ

Business Acquisitions (Narrative) (Details) € in Thousands, $ in Thousands	3 Months Ended			12 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2018USD ($)	Jun. 30, 2018USD ($)	Mar. 31, 2018USD ($)	Sep. 30, 2018USD ($)	Sep. 30, 2017USD ($)	Sep. 30, 2016USD ($)	Sep. 30, 2018EUR (€)	Sep. 30, 2018USD ($)	Jun. 01, 2018USD ($)
Business Acquisition [Line Items]
Total purchase price				$ 771,115
Proceeds from issuance of long-term debt				400,000		$ 179,308
Borrowings on revolving lines of credit				1,930,261	$ 1,506,000	695,000
Amortization of Intangible Assets				44,742	25,777	27,486
Goodwill, Acquired During Period				257,447
Cost of forward option				5,543	0	0
Interest Expense				$ 31,770	27,430	$ 26,776
Business Acquisition, Acquiree - L'Orange [Member]
Business Acquisition [Line Items]
Effective Date of Acquisition				Jun. 1, 2018
Purchase agreement contract price							€ 700,000	$ 811,000
Total purchase price				$ 771,115
Cash paid at closing				780,401
Proceeds from issuance of long-term debt				400,000
Borrowings on revolving lines of credit				167,420
Amortization of Intangible Assets				19,753
Goodwill, Acquired During Period				257,447
Net sales since acquisition date	$ 78,027	$ 24,878		102,905
Net loss since acquisition date				9,334
Transaction costs	$ 850	3,077	$ 1,281	12,886
Cost of forward option		$ 5,543		5,543
Interest Expense				4,904
Business Combination, Pro Forma Information, Earnings or Loss of Acquiree since Acquisition Date, Actual				9,334
Defined Benefit Pension Plan [Member]
Business Acquisition [Line Items]
Pension obligation assumed in L'Orange aquisition				39,257
Current portion of pension obligation					3			1,322
Defined Benefit Pension Plan [Member] | Business Acquisition, Acquiree - L'Orange [Member]
Business Acquisition [Line Items]
Pension obligation assumed in L'Orange aquisition				$ 39,257
Current portion of pension obligation									$ 1,143
Other Postretirement Benefit Plans [Member]
Business Acquisition [Line Items]
Current portion of pension obligation					$ 2,410			$ 2,249

Business Acquisitions (Schedule

Business Acquisitions (Schedule of Purchase Price) (Details) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2018USD ($)
Business Acquisition [Line Items]
Total purchase price	$ 771,115
Business Acquisition, Acquiree - L'Orange [Member]
Business Acquisition [Line Items]
Cash paid to seller	780,401
Less cash and restricted cash acquired	(9,286)
Total purchase price	$ 771,115

Business Acquisitions (Schedu_2

Business Acquisitions (Schedule of Purchase Price Allocation) (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Sep. 30, 2018	Jun. 01, 2018	Sep. 30, 2017	Sep. 30, 2016
Business Acquisition [Line Items]
Goodwill	$ 813,250		$ 556,545	$ 555,684
Fair value adjustment to inventory as of acquisition date		$ 16,324
Business Acquisition, Acquiree - L'Orange [Member]
Business Acquisition [Line Items]
Accounts receivable	26,538
Inventories	72,392
Other current assets	1,385
Property, plant, and equipment	89,772
Goodwill	257,447
Intangible assets	573,427	$ 573,427
Total assets acquired	1,020,961
Other current liabilities	41,997
Deferred tax liabilities	166,927
Other noncurrent liabilities	40,922
Total liabilities assumed	249,846
Net assets acquired	$ 771,115

Business Acquisitions (Schedu_3

Business Acquisitions (Schedule of Finite-Lived and Indefinite-Lived Intangible Assets Acquired) (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2018	Jun. 01, 2018
Business Acquisition, Acquiree - L'Orange [Member]
Business Acquisition [Line Items]
Intangible assets	$ 573,427	$ 573,427
Business Acquisition, Acquiree - L'Orange [Member] | Trade Names [Member]
Business Acquisition [Line Items]
Intangible assets		67,298
Process Technology [Member]
Business Acquisition [Line Items]
Weighted Average Useful Life	22 years
Process Technology [Member] | Business Acquisition, Acquiree - L'Orange [Member]
Business Acquisition [Line Items]
Intangible assets		74,260
Customer Relationships [Member]
Business Acquisition [Line Items]
Weighted Average Useful Life	22 years
Customer Relationships [Member] | Business Acquisition, Acquiree - L'Orange [Member]
Business Acquisition [Line Items]
Intangible assets		388,705
Other Intangibles [Member]
Business Acquisition [Line Items]
Weighted Average Useful Life	3 years
Other Intangibles [Member] | Business Acquisition, Acquiree - L'Orange [Member]
Business Acquisition [Line Items]
Intangible assets		232
Backlog [Member]
Business Acquisition [Line Items]
Weighted Average Useful Life	1 year
Backlog [Member] | Business Acquisition, Acquiree - L'Orange [Member]
Business Acquisition [Line Items]
Intangible assets		$ 42,932

Business Acquisitions (Schedu_4

Business Acquisitions (Schedule of Finite-Lived Intangible Assets Acquired, Future Amortization Expense) (Details) $ in Thousands	Sep. 30, 2018USD ($)
Business Acquisition [Line Items]
2,019	$ 59,187
2,020	40,266
2,021	41,320
2,022	39,114
2,023	38,056
Thereafter	415,605
Total Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Net	633,548
Business Acquisition, Acquiree - L'Orange [Member]
Business Acquisition [Line Items]
2,019	36,046
2,020	19,900
2,021	22,920
2,022	22,868
2,023	22,868
Thereafter	362,089
Total Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Net	$ 486,691

Business Acquisitions (Schedu_5

Business Acquisitions (Schedule of Unaudited Pro Forma Results) (Details) - USD ($) $ / shares in Units, $ in Thousands	3 Months Ended								12 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2018	Jun. 30, 2018	Mar. 31, 2018	Dec. 31, 2017	Sep. 30, 2017	Jun. 30, 2017	Mar. 31, 2017	Dec. 31, 2016	Sep. 30, 2018	Sep. 30, 2017	Sep. 30, 2016
Business Acquisition [Line Items]
Net sales	$ 719,359	$ 588,117	$ 548,249	$ 470,148	$ 606,788	$ 548,622	$ 500,381	$ 442,894	$ 2,325,873	$ 2,098,685	$ 2,023,078
Net earnings	$ 74,512	$ 49,117	$ 38,489	$ 18,260	$ 62,228	$ 53,626	$ 38,105	$ 46,548	$ 180,378	$ 200,507	$ 180,838
Basic earnings per share	$ 1.21	$ 0.80	$ 0.63	$ 0.30	$ 1.02	$ 0.87	$ 0.62	$ 0.76	$ 2.93	$ 3.27	$ 2.92
Diluted earnings per share	$ 1.16	$ 0.77	$ 0.60	$ 0.29	$ 0.98	$ 0.85	$ 0.60	$ 0.73	$ 2.82	$ 3.16	$ 2.85
Business Acquisition, Acquiree - L'Orange [Member]
Pro forma
Net earnings									$ 221,193	$ 173,962
Net sales									$ 2,549,874	$ 2,380,572
Basic earnings per share									$ 3.60	$ 2.83
Diluted earnings per share									$ 3.46	$ 2.74

Joint Ventures (Narrative) (Det

Joint Ventures (Narrative) (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	3 Months Ended	9 Months Ended	12 Months Ended
	Mar. 31, 2018	Sep. 30, 2016	Sep. 30, 2018	Sep. 30, 2017	Sep. 30, 2016	Jan. 04, 2016
Schedule of Equity Method Investments [Line Items]
Cash received from formation of joint venture					$ 250,000
Current portion of deferred income recorded in connection with joint venture			$ 7,087	$ 6,451
Noncurrent portion of deferred income recorded in connection with joint venture			235,300	236,896
Deferred income tax assets			166,762	201,970
Equity interest in earnings (losses) of joint venture			$ 3,339	2,568	$ 6,204
Woodward and General Electric Joint Venture [Member]
Schedule of Equity Method Investments [Line Items]
Agreement to Form Joint Venture, Execution Date					Jan. 4, 2016
Equity Method Investment, Ownership Percentage			50.00%
Cash received from formation of joint venture	$ 4,894				$ 250,000
Cash received annually from formation of joint venture			$ 4,894
Amount of deferred income recorded in connection with joint venture						$ 250,000
Current portion of deferred income recorded in connection with joint venture			7,087	6,451
Noncurrent portion of deferred income recorded in connection with joint venture			235,300	236,896
Equity interest in earnings (losses) of joint venture		$ 6,204	3,339	2,568
Cash distributions from joint venture			0	2,500
Net investment in joint venture			9,611	6,272
Accounts receivable from related party			10,499	8,554
Accounts payable to related party			2,944	6,741
Woodward and General Electric Joint Venture [Member] | Sales [Member]
Schedule of Equity Method Investments [Line Items]
Amortization of deferred income recognized as an increase to sales		5,261	5,854	6,286
Sales to related party		46,973	72,511	70,234
Reduction to sales related to royalties paid to joint venture		$ 21,391	$ 26,023	$ 26,133
Woodward and General Electric Joint Venture [Member] | Scenario, Forecast [Member]
Schedule of Equity Method Investments [Line Items]
Cash received annually from formation of joint venture					$ 4,894

Financial Instruments and Fai_3

Financial Instruments and Fair Value Measurements (Narrative) (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Sep. 30, 2018	Sep. 30, 2017
Fair Value Measurement Inputs and Valuation Techniques [Line Items]
Financial liability on recurring basis	$ 23,000
Investments in Short-Term Time Deposits [Member]
Fair Value Measurement Inputs and Valuation Techniques [Line Items]
Interest rate used to estimate fair value	6.30%	5.30%
Long Term Notes Receivable From Municipalities [Member]
Fair Value Measurement Inputs and Valuation Techniques [Line Items]
Interest rate used to estimate fair value	3.10%	2.60%
Long-Term Debt [Member]
Fair Value Measurement Inputs and Valuation Techniques [Line Items]
Interest rate used to estimate fair value	3.50%	2.40%
Cash [Member]
Fair Value Measurement Inputs and Valuation Techniques [Line Items]
Cash and Cash Equivalents, Fair Value Disclosure	$ 59,838	$ 79,822
Investments in Reverse Repurchase Agreements [Member]
Fair Value Measurement Inputs and Valuation Techniques [Line Items]
Cash and Cash Equivalents, Fair Value Disclosure	4,582	1
Investments in Term Deposits with Foreign Banks [Member]
Fair Value Measurement Inputs and Valuation Techniques [Line Items]
Cash and Cash Equivalents, Fair Value Disclosure	19,174	$ 7,729
Restricted Investments in Term Deposits with Foreign Banks [Member]
Fair Value Measurement Inputs and Valuation Techniques [Line Items]
Cash and Cash Equivalents, Fair Value Disclosure	$ 3,635

Financial Instruments and Fai_4

Financial Instruments and Fair Value Measurements (Financial Assets that are Measured at Fair Value on a Recurring Basis) (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Sep. 30, 2018	Sep. 30, 2017
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Total financial assets	$ 103,324	$ 104,152
Total financial liabilities	23,000
Cross Currency Interest Rate Contract [Member]
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Hedging liabilities, cross currency interest rate swaps	23,000
Fair Value, Inputs, Level 1 [Member]
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Total financial assets	103,324	104,152
Fair Value, Inputs, Level 2 [Member]
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Total financial assets	0	0
Total financial liabilities	23,000
Fair Value, Inputs, Level 2 [Member] | Cross Currency Interest Rate Contract [Member]
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Hedging liabilities, cross currency interest rate swaps	23,000
Fair Value, Inputs, Level 3 [Member]
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Total financial assets	0	0
Cash [Member]
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Cash and cash equivalents	59,838	79,822
Cash [Member] | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 1 [Member]
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Cash and cash equivalents	59,838	79,822
Cash [Member] | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 2 [Member]
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Cash and cash equivalents	0	0
Cash [Member] | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 3 [Member]
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Cash and cash equivalents	0	0
Investments in Reverse Repurchase Agreements [Member]
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Cash and cash equivalents	4,582	1
Investments in Reverse Repurchase Agreements [Member] | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 1 [Member]
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Cash and cash equivalents	4,582	1
Investments in Reverse Repurchase Agreements [Member] | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 2 [Member]
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Cash and cash equivalents	0	0
Investments in Reverse Repurchase Agreements [Member] | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 3 [Member]
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Cash and cash equivalents	0	0
Investments in Term Deposits with Foreign Banks [Member]
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Cash and cash equivalents	19,174	7,729
Investments in Term Deposits with Foreign Banks [Member] | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 1 [Member]
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Cash and cash equivalents	19,174	7,729
Investments in Term Deposits with Foreign Banks [Member] | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 2 [Member]
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Cash and cash equivalents	0	0
Investments in Term Deposits with Foreign Banks [Member] | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 3 [Member]
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Cash and cash equivalents	0	0
Equity Securities [Member]
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Equity securities	19,730	16,600
Equity Securities [Member] | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 1 [Member]
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Equity securities	19,730	16,600
Equity Securities [Member] | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 2 [Member]
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Equity securities	0	0
Equity Securities [Member] | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 3 [Member]
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Equity securities	$ 0	$ 0

Financial Instruments and Fai_5

Financial Instruments and Fair Value Measurements (Estimated Fair Values of Financial Instruments) (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Sep. 30, 2018	Sep. 30, 2017
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Notes receivable from municipalities, Carrying Cost	$ 13,462	$ 14,507
Investments in short-term time deposits, Carrying Cost	8,874	8,223
Long-term debt, excluding current portion, Carrying Cost	(1,095,292)	(582,080)
Fair Value, Inputs, Level 2 [Member]
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Notes receivable from municipalities, Estimated Fair Value	13,458	15,848
Investments in short-term time deposits, Estimated Fair Value	8,883	8,227
Long-term debt, excluding current portion, Estimated Fair Value	$ (1,094,987)	$ (592,317)

Derivative Instruments and He_2

Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities (Narrative) (Details) € in Thousands, ¥ in Thousands, $ in Thousands

Apr. 18, 2018EUR (€)

Sep. 30, 2013USD ($)

Jun. 30, 2018USD ($)

Sep. 30, 2018USD ($)

Sep. 30, 2017USD ($)

Sep. 30, 2016USD ($)

Sep. 30, 2017USD ($)

Sep. 30, 2016USD ($)

Sep. 30, 2018EUR (€)

Sep. 30, 2018USD ($)

Sep. 30, 2016CNY (¥)

Jun. 30, 2016CNY (¥)

Jun. 30, 2013USD ($)

Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) [Line Items]

Amount of Gain (Loss) Recognized in Accumulated OCI on Derivative

$ (23,000)

Unrealized Gain (Loss) on Derivatives Arising During Period

$ (23,000)

Term of gain or loss recognition in interest expense on terminated derivatives recorded in OCI

12 months

Face Amount | €

€ 160,000

Derivative, Currency Bought

Euro

Derivative, Cost of Hedge

$ 5,543

$ 0

$ 0

First China Intercompany Loan [Member]

Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) [Line Items]

Gain (loss) on foreign currency transaction designated as a hedge of a net investment in a foreign subsidiary

912

$ 1,484

Value of Net Investment Hedging Instruments Used | ¥

¥ 160,000

Second China Intercompany Loan [Member]

Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) [Line Items]

Gain (loss) on foreign currency transaction designated as a hedge of a net investment in a foreign subsidiary

453

(73)

$ 380

Value of Net Investment Hedging Instruments Used | ¥

¥ 160,000

Designated as Hedging Instrument [Member] | Net Investment Hedging [Member] | EUR Denominated Loan [Member]

Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) [Line Items]

Gain (loss) on foreign currency transaction designated as a hedge of a net investment in a foreign subsidiary

838

(2,395)

$ (47)

Total Accumulated Other Comprehensive (Loss) Earnings [Member]

Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) [Line Items]

Remaining unrecognzied gains (losses) associated with derivative instruments included in AOCI

$ 218

$ 218

$ (21,315)

Floating-Rate Cross Currency Interest Rate Contract [Member]

Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) [Line Items]

Amount of Gain (Loss) Recognized in Accumulated OCI on Derivative

(1,034)

Unrealized Gain (Loss) on Derivatives Arising During Period

(1,034)

Floating-Rate Cross Currency Interest Rate Contract [Member] | Not Designated as Hedging Instrument, Economic Hedge [Member]

Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) [Line Items]

Derivative, Notional Amount

$ 167,420

Derivative, Notional Amount

167,420

Fixed-Rate Cross Currency Interest Rate Contract [Member]

Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) [Line Items]

Amount of Gain (Loss) Recognized in Accumulated OCI on Derivative

(21,966)

Unrealized Gain (Loss) on Derivatives Arising During Period

$ (21,966)

Fixed-Rate Cross Currency Interest Rate Contract [Member] | Designated as Hedging Instrument [Member] | Derivatives in Cash Flow Hedging Relationships [Member]

Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) [Line Items]

Derivative, Notional Amount

400,000

Derivative, Notional Amount

400,000

Fixed-Rate Cross Currency Interest Rate Contract [Member] | Not Designated as Hedging Instrument, Economic Hedge [Member]

Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) [Line Items]

Derivative, Notional Amount

400,000

Derivative, Notional Amount

400,000

Foreign Exchange Option [Member] | Not Designated as Hedging Instrument, Economic Hedge [Member]

Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) [Line Items]

Derivative, Notional Amount | €

€ 490,000

Derivative, Notional Amount | €

€ 490,000

Derivative, Forward Exchange Rate

1.2432

Derivative, Cost of Hedge

$ 5,543

Derivative, Inception Date

Apr. 18, 2018

Derivative, Maturity Date

Jun. 1, 2018

Derivative, Exercise Date

May 30, 2018

Treasury Lock [Member] | Designated as Hedging Instrument [Member] | Derivatives in Cash Flow Hedging Relationships [Member]

Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) [Line Items]

Amount of Gain (Loss) Recognized in Accumulated OCI on Derivative

$ 507

Unrealized Gain (Loss) on Derivatives Arising During Period

$ 507

Net unrecognized gains on terminated derivative instruments expected to be reclassified to earnings

$ 72

Derivative, Notional Amount

$ 25,000

Derivative, Notional Amount

$ 25,000

2016 Note Purchase Agreements [Member]

Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) [Line Items]

Issuance Date

Sep. 23, 2016

Series M Notes [Member]

Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) [Line Items]

Face Amount | €

€ 40,000

Derivative Instruments and He_3

Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities (Impact of Derivative Instruments on Earnings) (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2018	Sep. 30, 2017	Sep. 30, 2016
Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) [Line Items]
Amount of (Income) Expense Recognized in Earnings on Derivative	$ 1,467	$ (72)	$ 21
Amount of Gain/Loss Recognized in Accumulated OCI on Derivative	23,000
Amount of (Gain) Loss Reclassified from Accumulated OCI into Earnings	1,467	(72)	21
Fixed-Rate Cross Currency Interest Rate Contract [Member]
Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) [Line Items]
Amount of (Income) Expense Recognized in Earnings on Derivative	1,067
Amount of Gain/Loss Recognized in Accumulated OCI on Derivative	21,966
Amount of (Gain) Loss Reclassified from Accumulated OCI into Earnings	1,067
Floating-Rate Cross Currency Interest Rate Contract [Member]
Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) [Line Items]
Amount of (Income) Expense Recognized in Earnings on Derivative	472
Amount of Gain/Loss Recognized in Accumulated OCI on Derivative	1,034
Amount of (Gain) Loss Reclassified from Accumulated OCI into Earnings	472
Treasury Lock [Member]
Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) [Line Items]
Amount of (Income) Expense Recognized in Earnings on Derivative	(72)	(72)	21
Amount of (Gain) Loss Reclassified from Accumulated OCI into Earnings	$ (72)	$ (72)	$ 21

Supplemental Statements of Ca_3

Supplemental Statements of Cash Flows Information (Schedule of Cash Flow Supplemental Disclosures) (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2018	Sep. 30, 2017	Sep. 30, 2016
Supplemental Statements of Cash Flows Information
Interest paid, net of amounts capitalized	$ 29,677	$ 27,752	$ 34,500
Income taxes paid	44,831	33,926	99,468
Income tax refunds received	1,976	997	2,350
Purchases of property, plant and equipment on account	11,982	17,327	10,705
Property, plant and equipment acquired by capital lease	0	0	1,653
Common shares issued from treasury stock to settle employee liabilities	0	1,767	0
Common shares issued from treasury stock for benefit plans	14,741	14,014	13,999
Cashless exercise of stock options	$ 0	$ 1,473	$ 753

Inventories (Schedule of Invent

Inventories (Schedule of Inventories) (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Sep. 30, 2018	Sep. 30, 2017
Inventories
Raw Materials	$ 80,999	$ 59,034
Work in progress	118,010	103,790
Component Parts	298,820	262,755
Finished Goods	51,767	47,926
Inventory, net	$ 549,596	$ 473,505

Property, Plant, and Equipmen_3

Property, Plant, and Equipment, Net (Narrative) (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2018	Sep. 30, 2017	Sep. 30, 2016
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Property, plant and equipment held for sale	$ 8,306	$ 0
Property, plant and equipment remaining	2,600
Assets planned to be disposed of as a result of relocation	650
Depreciation expense	71,389	55,140	$ 41,550
Second Campus Rockford Illinois [Member]
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Construction in progress	32,248	49,347
Drake Campus Fort Collins Colorado Member
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Construction in progress	3,967	15,584
Office furniture and equipment [Member]
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Gross assets acquired on capital leases	1,650	1,653
Accumulated depreciation on capital lease assets	$ 1,158	$ 739

Property, Plant, and Equipmen_4

Property, Plant, and Equipment, Net (Property, Plant, and Equipment - Net) (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2018	Sep. 30, 2017	Sep. 30, 2016
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Property, Plant and Equipment, Gross	$ 1,624,874	$ 1,442,896
Less accumulated depreciation	(564,869)	(520,853)
Property, Plant and Equipment, Net, Total	1,060,005	922,043
Depreciation expense	71,389	55,140	$ 41,550
Capitalized interest	2,187	2,008	$ 5,455
Land and Land Improvements [Member]
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Property, Plant and Equipment, Gross	94,146	88,326
Building and Building Improvements [Member]
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Property, Plant and Equipment, Gross	565,065	514,453
Leasehold Improvements [Member]
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Property, Plant and Equipment, Gross	17,954	16,142
Machinery and Equipment, Excluding Computer and Office Equipment [Member]
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Property, Plant and Equipment, Gross	668,986	543,641
Computer Equipment and Software [Member]
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Property, Plant and Equipment, Gross	124,788	124,723
Office furniture and equipment [Member]
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Property, Plant and Equipment, Gross	31,533	24,308
Other Capitalized Property Plant and Equipment [Member]
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Property, Plant and Equipment, Gross	19,366	19,393
Construction in Progress [Member]
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Property, Plant and Equipment, Gross	$ 103,036	$ 111,910

Goodwill (Narrative) (Details)

Goodwill (Narrative) (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	3 Months Ended	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2018	Sep. 30, 2018	Sep. 30, 2017
Goodwill [Line Items]
Goodwill addition		$ 257,447
Impairment		0
Assumed annual compound growth rate after five or ten years	3.32%
Aerospace [Member]
Goodwill [Line Items]
Goodwill addition			$ 0
Industrial [Member]
Goodwill [Line Items]
Goodwill addition		$ 257,447	$ 0
Minimum [Member]
Goodwill [Line Items]
Weighted average cost of capital assumption	9.83%
Maximum [Member]
Goodwill [Line Items]
Weighted average cost of capital assumption	12.76%

Goodwill (Goodwill) (Details)

Goodwill (Goodwill) (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2018	Sep. 30, 2017
Goodwill [Line Items]
Goodwill, Beginning Balance	$ 556,545	$ 555,684
Additions	257,447
Effects of Currency Translation	(742)	861
Goodwill, Ending Balance	813,250	556,545
Aerospace [Member]
Goodwill [Line Items]
Goodwill, Beginning Balance	455,423	455,423
Additions		0
Effects of Currency Translation	0	0
Goodwill, Ending Balance	455,423	455,423
Industrial [Member]
Goodwill [Line Items]
Goodwill, Beginning Balance	101,122	100,261
Additions	257,447	0
Effects of Currency Translation	(742)	861
Goodwill, Ending Balance	357,827	$ 101,122
Business Acquisition, Acquiree - L'Orange [Member]
Goodwill [Line Items]
Additions	257,447
Goodwill, Ending Balance	257,447
Business Acquisition, Acquiree - L'Orange [Member] | Industrial [Member]
Goodwill [Line Items]
Additions	$ 257,447

Intangible Assets, Net (Schedul

Intangible Assets, Net (Schedule of Finite-Lived and Indefinite-Lived Intangible Assets by Major Class) (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2018	Sep. 30, 2017	Sep. 30, 2016
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]
Intangible Assets, Gross (Excluding Goodwill), Total	$ 1,016,456	$ 443,476
Accumulated Amortization of Finite-Lived Intangible	(315,573)	(271,594)
Net Carrying Amount - Finite-Lived Intangible	633,548
Intangible Assets, Net (Excluding Goodwill), Total	700,883	171,882
Amortization expense	44,742	25,777	$ 27,486
Trade Names [Member]
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]
Indefinite-Lived Intangible Assets	67,335
Process Technology [Member]
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]
Gross Carrying Value - Finite-Lived Intangible	173,526	99,555
Accumulated Amortization of Finite-Lived Intangible	(75,247)	(66,880)
Net Carrying Amount - Finite-Lived Intangible	98,279	32,675
Customer Relationships [Member]
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]
Gross Carrying Value - Finite-Lived Intangible	711,563	323,187
Accumulated Amortization of Finite-Lived Intangible	(202,575)	(185,562)
Net Carrying Amount - Finite-Lived Intangible	508,988	137,625
Intellectual Property [Member]
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]
Gross Carrying Value - Finite-Lived Intangible	19,448	19,422
Accumulated Amortization of Finite-Lived Intangible	(18,587)	(18,196)
Net Carrying Amount - Finite-Lived Intangible	861	1,226
Backlog [Member]
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]
Gross Carrying Value - Finite-Lived Intangible	42,955	0
Accumulated Amortization of Finite-Lived Intangible	(18,006)	0
Net Carrying Amount - Finite-Lived Intangible	24,949	0
Other Intangibles [Member]
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]
Gross Carrying Value - Finite-Lived Intangible	1,629	1,312
Accumulated Amortization of Finite-Lived Intangible	(1,158)	(956)
Net Carrying Amount - Finite-Lived Intangible	471	356
Aerospace [Member]
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]
Intangible Assets, Gross (Excluding Goodwill), Total	358,055	358,830
Accumulated Amortization of Finite-Lived Intangible	(221,593)	(200,279)
Intangible Assets, Net (Excluding Goodwill), Total	136,462	158,551
Aerospace [Member] | Process Technology [Member]
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]
Gross Carrying Value - Finite-Lived Intangible	76,372	76,605
Accumulated Amortization of Finite-Lived Intangible	(54,874)	(49,124)
Net Carrying Amount - Finite-Lived Intangible	21,498	27,481
Aerospace [Member] | Customer Relationships [Member]
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]
Gross Carrying Value - Finite-Lived Intangible	281,683	282,225
Accumulated Amortization of Finite-Lived Intangible	(166,719)	(151,155)
Net Carrying Amount - Finite-Lived Intangible	114,964	131,070
Aerospace [Member] | Intellectual Property [Member]
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]
Gross Carrying Value - Finite-Lived Intangible	0	0
Accumulated Amortization of Finite-Lived Intangible	0	0
Net Carrying Amount - Finite-Lived Intangible	0	0
Aerospace [Member] | Backlog [Member]
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]
Gross Carrying Value - Finite-Lived Intangible	0	0
Accumulated Amortization of Finite-Lived Intangible	0	0
Net Carrying Amount - Finite-Lived Intangible	0	0
Aerospace [Member] | Other Intangibles [Member]
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]
Gross Carrying Value - Finite-Lived Intangible	0	0
Accumulated Amortization of Finite-Lived Intangible	0	0
Net Carrying Amount - Finite-Lived Intangible	0	0
Industrial [Member]
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]
Intangible Assets, Gross (Excluding Goodwill), Total	658,401	84,646
Accumulated Amortization of Finite-Lived Intangible	(93,980)	(71,315)
Intangible Assets, Net (Excluding Goodwill), Total	564,421	13,331
Industrial [Member] | Trade Names [Member]
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]
Indefinite-Lived Intangible Assets	67,335
Industrial [Member] | Process Technology [Member]
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]
Gross Carrying Value - Finite-Lived Intangible	97,154	22,950
Accumulated Amortization of Finite-Lived Intangible	(20,373)	(17,756)
Net Carrying Amount - Finite-Lived Intangible	76,781	5,194
Industrial [Member] | Customer Relationships [Member]
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]
Gross Carrying Value - Finite-Lived Intangible	429,880	40,962
Accumulated Amortization of Finite-Lived Intangible	(35,856)	(34,407)
Net Carrying Amount - Finite-Lived Intangible	394,024	6,555
Industrial [Member] | Intellectual Property [Member]
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]
Gross Carrying Value - Finite-Lived Intangible	19,448	19,422
Accumulated Amortization of Finite-Lived Intangible	(18,587)	(18,196)
Net Carrying Amount - Finite-Lived Intangible	861	1,226
Industrial [Member] | Backlog [Member]
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]
Gross Carrying Value - Finite-Lived Intangible	42,955	0
Accumulated Amortization of Finite-Lived Intangible	(18,006)	0
Net Carrying Amount - Finite-Lived Intangible	24,949	0
Industrial [Member] | Other Intangibles [Member]
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]
Gross Carrying Value - Finite-Lived Intangible	1,629	1,312
Accumulated Amortization of Finite-Lived Intangible	(1,158)	(956)
Net Carrying Amount - Finite-Lived Intangible	$ 471	$ 356

Intangible Assets, Net (Sched_2

Intangible Assets, Net (Schedule of Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Future Amortization Expense) (Details) $ in Thousands	Sep. 30, 2018USD ($)
Intangible Assets, Net
2,019	$ 59,187
2,020	40,266
2,021	41,320
2,022	39,114
2,023	38,056
Thereafter	415,605
Total Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Net	$ 633,548

Credit Facilities, Short-term_3

Credit Facilities, Short-term Borrowings and Long-term Debt (Narrative) (Details) € in Thousands, $ in Thousands	3 Months Ended	12 Months Ended
	Mar. 31, 2018	Sep. 30, 2018USD ($)	Sep. 30, 2017USD ($)	Sep. 30, 2016USD ($)	Sep. 30, 2018EUR (€)	Sep. 30, 2018USD ($)
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Face Amount | €					€ 160,000
Debt financing costs		$ 1,494		$ 863
Amortization of debt financing costs recognized as interest expense		$ 1,256	$ 1,130	1,165
Balance of unamortized debt issuance costs			1,794			$ 2,895
Line of Credit Facility, Maximum Borrowing Capacity						1,012,858
Outstanding borrowings						270,176
Line of Credit Facility, Remaining Borrowing Capacity						729,662
Debt Instrument, Restrictive Covenants		Certain financial and other covenants under Woodward's debt agreements contain customary restrictions on the operation of its business.
Debt Instrument, Covenant Compliance		Management believes that Woodward was in compliance with the covenants under the long-term debt agreements at September 30, 2018.
The Notes [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Balance of unamortized debt issuance costs			$ 1,794			2,895
Debt Instrument, Description		In October 2008, Woodward entered into a note purchase agreement relating to the Series D Notes, due in October 2018. On October 1, 2018, Woodward paid the entire principal balance of $100,000 on the Series D Notes using proceeds from borrowings under its existing revolving credit facility. In April 2009, Woodward entered into a note purchase agreement relating to the Series F Notes. The Series F Notes mature and are payable in April 2019. As of September 30, 2018, the entire amount of debt under the Series F Notes has been classified as long-term based on Woodward's intent and ability to refinance this debt prior to maturity using cash proceeds from its existing revolving credit facility which, in turn, is expected to be repaid beyond the next twelve months.On October 1, 2013, Woodward entered into a note purchase agreement relating to the sale by Woodward of an aggregate principal amount of $250,000 of its senior unsecured notes in a series of private placement transactions. Woodward issued the Series G, H and I Notes (the "First Closing Notes") on October 1, 2013. Woodward issued the Series J, K and L Notes (the "Second Closing Notes" and together with the Series D Notes, the Series F Notes and the First Closing Notes, collectively the "USD Notes") on November 15, 2013. On September 23, 2016, Woodward and the BV Subsidiary each entered into note purchase agreements (the "2016 Note Purchase Agreements") relating to the sale by Woodward and the BV Subsidiary of an aggregate principal amount of €160,000 of senior unsecured notes in a series of private placement transactions. Woodward issued €40,000 Series M Notes. The BV Subsidiary issued (a) €77,000 aggregate principal amount of the BV Subsidiary's Series N Senior Notes (the "Series N Notes") and (b) €43,000 aggregate principal amount of the BV Subsidiary's Series O Senior Notes (the "Series O Notes" and together with the Series M Notes and the Series N Notes, the "2016 Notes," and, together with the USD Notes, collectively, the "Existing Notes").On May 31, 2018, Woodward entered into a note purchase agreement (the "2018 Note Purchase Agreement") relating to the sale by Woodward of an aggregate principal amount of $400,000 of senior unsecured notes comprised of (a) $85,000 aggregate principal amount of its Series P Senior Notes due May 30, 2025 and bearing interest at a rate of 4.27% per annum (the "Series P Notes"), (b) $85,000 aggregate principal amount of its Series Q Senior Notes due May 30, 2027 and bearing interest at a rate of 4.35% per annum (the "Series Q Notes"), (c) $75,000 aggregate principal amount of its Series R Senior Notes due May 30, 2029 and bearing interest at a rate of 4.41% per annum (the "Series R Notes"), (d) $75,000 aggregate principal amount of its Series S Senior Notes due May 30, 2030 and bearing interest at a rate of 4.46% per annum (the "Series S Notes"), and (e) $80,000 aggregate principal amount of its Series T Senior Notes due May 30, 2033 and bearing interest at a rate of 4.61% per annum (the "Series T Notes", and together with the Series P Notes, the Series Q Notes, the Series R Notes, and the Series S Notes, the "2018 Notes," and, together with the Existing Notes, the "Notes"), in a series of private placement transactions. In connection with the issuance of the 2018 Notes, the Company entered into cross currency swap transactions in respect of each tranche of the 2018 Notes, which effectively reduced the interest rates on the Series P Notes to 1.82% per annum, the Series Q Notes to 2.15% per annum, the Series R Notes to 2.42% per annum, the Series S Notes to 2.55% per annum and the Series T Notes to 2.90% per annum (see Note 7, Derivative instruments and hedging activities). Interest on the First Closing Notes, and the Series K and L Notes is payable semi-annually on April 1 and October 1 of each year until all principal is paid. Interest on the Series F Notes is payable semi-annually on April 15 and October 15 of each year until all principal is paid. Interest on the 2016 Notes is payable semi-annually on March 23 and September 23 of each year, until all principal is paid. Interest on the Series J Notes is payable quarterly on January 1, April 1, July 1 and October 1 of each year until all principal is paid. As of September 30, 2018, the Series J Notes bore interest at an effective rate of 3.57%. Commencing on November 30, 2018, interest on the 2018 Notes is payable semi-annually on May 30 and November 30 of each year until all principal is paid.None of the Notes were registered under the Securities Act of 1933 and they may not be offered or sold in the United States absent registration or an applicable exemption from registration requirements. Holders of the Notes do not have any registration rights.All of the issued Notes are held by multiple institutions.Woodward's payment and performance obligations under the Notes, including without limitation the obligations for payment of all principal, interest and any applicable prepayment compensation amount, are guaranteed by (i) Woodward FST, Inc., Woodward MPC, Inc., and Woodward HRT, Inc., each of which is a wholly owned subsidiary of Woodward, and (ii) in the case of the BV Subsidiary's Series N and O Notes, by Woodward. Woodward's obligations under the Notes rank equal in right of payment with all of Woodward's other unsecured unsubordinated debt, including its outstanding debt under its revolving credit facility.
Debt Instrument, Covenant Description		The Notes contain restrictive covenants customary for such financings, including, among other things, covenants that place limits on Woodward's ability to incur liens on assets, incur additional debt (including a leverage or coverage based maintenance test), transfer or sell Woodward's assets, merge or consolidate with other persons and enter into material transactions with affiliates. Under the financial covenants contained in the note purchase agreement governing each series of the Notes, Woodward's priority debt may not exceed, at any time, 25% of its consolidated net worth. Woodward's Leverage Ratio cannot exceed 4.0 to 1.0 during any material acquisition period, or 3.5 to 1.0 at any other time on a rolling four quarter basis. In the event that Woodward's Leverage Ratio exceeds 3.5 to 1.0 during any material acquisition period, the interest rate on each series of Notes will increase. Further for the Series D and F notes, Woodward's consolidated net worth must at all times equal or exceed $485,940 plus 50% of Woodward's consolidated net earnings for each fiscal year beginning with the fiscal year ending September 30, 2009. For the Series G, H, I, J, K, L, M, N, and O notes, Woodward's consolidated net worth must at all times equal or exceed $1,046,619 plus 50% of Woodward's positive net income for each completed fiscal year beginning with the fiscal year ending September 30, 2016. For the 2018 Notes, Woodward's consolidated net worth must at all times equal or exceed $1,156,000 plus (i) 50% of Woodward's positive net income for each completed fiscal year beginning with the fiscal year ending September 30, 2018 and (ii) 50% of the net cash proceeds received by Woodward on or after May 31, 2018 from the issuance of capital stock, other than issuances pursuant to employee stock option or ownership plans.
Debt Instrument, Payment Terms		The Company, at its option, is permitted at any time to prepay all or any part of the then-outstanding principal amount of any series of the Notes at 100% of the principal amount of the series of the Notes to be prepaid (but, in the case of partial prepayment, not less than $1,000 for each the USD Notes and the 2018 Notes and not less than €1,000 for the 2016 Notes), together with interest accrued on such amount to be prepaid to the date of prepayment, plus any applicable prepayment compensation amount. The prepayment compensation amount, as to the USD Notes and 2018 Notes, other than the Series J Notes, is computed by discounting the remaining scheduled payments of interest and principal of the USD Notes and/or 2018 Notes being prepaid at a discount rate equal to the sum of 50 basis points and the yield to maturity of U.S. Treasury securities having a maturity equal to the remaining average life of the USD Notes and/or 2018 Notes being prepaid. The prepayment compensation amount, as to the Series J Notes, generally is computed as a percentage of the principal amount of the Series J Notes equal to (a) 2%, on or prior to November 15, 2014, (b) 1%, after November 15, 2014 and on or prior to November 15, 2015, and (c) 0% after November 15, 2015. The prepayment compensation amount as to the 2016 Notes that is not subject to a swap agreement is computed by discounting the remaining scheduled payments of interest and principal of such notes being prepaid at a discount rate equal to the sum of 50 basis points and the yield to maturity of the German Bund having a maturity equal to the remaining average life of the 2016 Notes being prepaid. The prepayment compensation amount as to a 2016 Note that is subject to a swap agreement entered into by the holder of such note under which the holder will receive payment in U.S. dollars in exchange for scheduled Euro payments of principal and interest on the Euro denominated 2016 Notes, adjusted for theoretical holder returns foregone on hypothetical reinvestments in U.S. Treasury securities (the "Swapped Notes") is equal to the excess of an amount equal to the remaining scheduled payments to be paid in respect of such called principal under such swap agreement discounted at a rate equal to 50 basis points and the yield to maturity of U.S. Treasury securities having a maturity equal to the remaining average life of the Swapped Notes being prepaid over the amount of payments in U.S. dollars that would be paid to the holder of the Swapped Note in respect of the called principal under the swap agreement, which amount will be increased or reduced, as applicable, in an amount equal to any net gain or loss realized by the holder of such Swapped Note on swap transactions under such swap agreement as a result of such prepayment
2016 Note Purchase Agreements [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Issuance Date		Sep. 23, 2016
Debt financing costs				$ 863
Series M Notes [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Face Amount | €					€ 40,000
2018 Note Purchase Agreement [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Debt financing costs		$ 1,494
Series P Notes [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Face Amount						$ 85,000
Revolving Credit Facility [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Effective interest rate			2.29%		3.48%	3.48%
Outstanding borrowings			$ 32,600			$ 266,541
Line of Credit Facility, Amount Outstanding, Current		$ 150,000
Debt Instrument, Description		Woodward maintains a $1,000,000 revolving credit facility established under a revolving credit agreement among Woodward, a syndicate of lenders and Wells Fargo Bank, National Association, as administrative agent (the "Revolving Credit Agreement"). The Revolving Credit Agreement provides for the option to increase available borrowings up to $1,200,000, subject to lenders' participation. Borrowings under the Revolving Credit Agreement can be made by Woodward and certain of its foreign subsidiaries in U.S dollars or in foreign currencies other than the U.S. dollar and generally bear interest at LIBOR plus 0.85% to 1.65%. The Revolving Credit Agreement matures in April 2020.
Debt Instrument, Covenant Description		The Revolving Credit Agreement contains certain covenants customary with such agreements, which are generally consistent with the covenants applicable to Woodward's long-term debt agreements, and contains customary events of default, including certain cross default provisions related to Woodward's other outstanding debt arrangements in excess of $60,000, the occurrence of which would permit the lenders to accelerate the amounts due thereunder. In addition, the Revolving Credit Agreement includes the following financial covenants: (i) a maximum permitted leverage ratio of consolidated net debt to consolidated earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation, stock-based compensation, and amortization, plus any usual non-cash charges to the extent deducted in computing net income minus any usual non-cash gains to the extent added in computing net income ("Leverage Ratio") for Woodward and its consolidated subsidiaries of 3.5 to 1.0, which ratio, subject to certain restrictions, may increase to 4.0 to 1.0 for the fiscal quarter (and the immediately following fiscal quarter) during which a permitted acquisition occurs and to 3.75 to 1.0 for the following two succeeding fiscal quarters, and (ii) a minimum consolidated net worth of $800,000 plus (a) 50% of Woodward's positive net income for the prior fiscal year and (b) 50% of Woodward's net cash proceeds resulting from certain issuances of stock, subject to certain adjustments.
Other Foreign Short-term Borrowings [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Line of Credit Facility, Maximum Borrowing Capacity						3,635
Outstanding borrowings			0			3,635
Foreign Performance Guarantee Facilities [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Line of Credit Facility, Maximum Borrowing Capacity						1,783
Line of Credit Facility, Remaining Borrowing Capacity						247
Foreign Lines of Credit And Overdraft Facilities [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Line of Credit Facility, Maximum Borrowing Capacity						7,440
Outstanding borrowings						0
Line of Credit Facility, Remaining Borrowing Capacity						7,440
Revolving Credit Facility [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Line of Credit Facility, Maximum Borrowing Capacity						1,000,000
Outstanding borrowings						266,541
Line of Credit Facility, Remaining Borrowing Capacity						$ 721,975
Revolving Credit Agreement [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Variable Rate Basis	LIBOR
Line of Credit Facility, Amount Outstanding, Current			$ 32,600

Credit Facilities and Short-ter

Credit Facilities and Short-term Borrowings (Short-term Borrowings and Availability Under Various Short-term Credit Facilities) (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Sep. 30, 2018	Sep. 30, 2017
Line of Credit Facility [Line Items]
Total availability	$ 1,012,858
Outstanding letters of credit and guarantees	(13,020)
Outstanding borrowings	(270,176)
Remaining availability	729,662
Other Foreign Short-term Borrowings [Member]
Line of Credit Facility [Line Items]
Total availability	3,635
Outstanding borrowings	(3,635)	$ 0
Foreign Performance Guarantee Facilities [Member]
Line of Credit Facility [Line Items]
Total availability	1,783
Outstanding letters of credit and guarantees	(1,536)
Remaining availability	247
Foreign Lines of Credit And Overdraft Facilities [Member]
Line of Credit Facility [Line Items]
Total availability	7,440
Outstanding borrowings	0
Remaining availability	7,440
Revolving Credit Facility [Member]
Line of Credit Facility [Line Items]
Total availability	1,000,000
Outstanding letters of credit and guarantees	(11,484)
Outstanding borrowings	(266,541)
Remaining availability	$ 721,975

Long-term Debt (Schedule of Lon

Long-term Debt (Schedule of Long-term Debt) (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	3 Months Ended	12 Months Ended
	Mar. 31, 2018	Sep. 30, 2018	Sep. 30, 2017
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Long-term Debt		$ 1,092,397	$ 580,286
Unamortized debt issuance costs		(2,895)	(1,794)
Current portion of long-term debt		0	0
Long-term debt, excluding current portion		$ 1,092,397	$ 580,286
Series P Notes [Member] | Notes Payable to Banks [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Interest rate		4.27%
Maturity date		May 30, 2025
Long-term Debt		$ 85,000
Series R Notes [Member] | Notes Payable to Banks [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Interest rate		4.41%
Maturity date		May 30, 2029
Long-term Debt		$ 75,000
Series S Notes [Member] | Notes Payable to Banks [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Interest rate		4.46%
Maturity date		May 30, 2030
Long-term Debt		$ 75,000
Series T Notes [Member] | Notes Payable to Banks [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Interest rate		4.61%
Maturity date		May 30, 2033
Long-term Debt		$ 80,000
Series D Notes [Member] | Notes Payable to Banks [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Interest rate		6.39%	6.39%
Maturity date		Oct. 1, 2018	Oct. 1, 2018
Long-term Debt		$ 100,000	$ 100,000
Series F Notes [Member] | Notes Payable to Banks [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Interest rate		8.24%	8.24%
Maturity date		Apr. 3, 2019	Apr. 3, 2019
Long-term Debt		$ 43,000	$ 43,000
Series J Notes [Member] | Notes Payable to Banks [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Variable Rate Basis		1.25%	1.25%
Maturity date		Nov. 15, 2020	Nov. 15, 2020
Long-term Debt		$ 50,000	$ 50,000
Series G Notes [Member] | Notes Payable to Banks [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Interest rate		3.42%	3.42%
Maturity date		Nov. 15, 2020	Nov. 15, 2020
Long-term Debt		$ 50,000	$ 50,000
Series H Notes [Member] | Notes Payable to Banks [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Interest rate		4.03%	4.03%
Maturity date		Nov. 15, 2023	Nov. 15, 2023
Long-term Debt		$ 25,000	$ 25,000
Series I Notes [Member] | Notes Payable to Banks [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Interest rate		4.18%	4.18%
Maturity date		Nov. 15, 2025	Nov. 15, 2025
Long-term Debt		$ 25,000	$ 25,000
Series K Notes [Member] | Notes Payable to Banks [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Interest rate		4.03%	4.03%
Maturity date		Nov. 15, 2023	Nov. 15, 2023
Long-term Debt		$ 50,000	$ 50,000
Series L Notes [Member] | Notes Payable to Banks [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Interest rate		4.18%	4.18%
Maturity date		Nov. 15, 2025	Nov. 15, 2025
Long-term Debt		$ 50,000	$ 50,000
Series M Notes [Member] | Notes Payable to Banks [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Interest rate		1.12%	1.12%
Maturity date		Sep. 23, 2026	Sep. 23, 2026
Long-term Debt		$ 46,437	$ 47,270
Series N Notes [Member] | Notes Payable to Banks [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Interest rate		1.31%	1.31%
Maturity date		Sep. 23, 2028	Sep. 23, 2028
Long-term Debt		$ 89,393	$ 90,995
Series O Notes [Member] | Notes Payable to Banks [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Interest rate		1.57%	1.57%
Maturity date		Sep. 23, 2031	Sep. 23, 2031
Long-term Debt		$ 49,921	$ 50,815
Series Q Notes [Member] | Notes Payable to Banks [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Interest rate		4.35%
Maturity date		May 30, 2027
Long-term Debt		$ 85,000
Revolving Credit Facility [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Long-term Debt		$ 116,541
Revolving Credit Agreement [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Variable Rate Basis	LIBOR

Long-term Debt (Schedule of Fut

Long-term Debt (Schedule of Future Principal Payments of Long-term Debt) (Details) $ in Thousands	Sep. 30, 2018USD ($)
Debt Disclosure
2,019	$ 143,000
2,021	100,000
Thereafter	735,751
Long-term debt balance	$ 978,751

Accrued Liabilities (Narrative)

Accrued Liabilities (Narrative) (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	3 Months Ended		12 Months Ended
	Jun. 30, 2017	Dec. 31, 2015	Sep. 30, 2018	Sep. 30, 2017	Sep. 30, 2016
Restructuring Cost and Reserve [Line Items]
Restructuring Charges			$ 17,013
Loss reserve, noncurrent portion			2,686	$ 3,927
Loss Reserve On Contractual Lease Commitments [Member]
Restructuring Cost and Reserve [Line Items]
Restructuring Charges		$ 8,165	0	0	$ 8,165
Non-cash adjustments	$ 2,322		0	$ (2,322)	$ 0
Loss reserve, noncurrent portion			2,686
Duarte Relocation Restructuring Charges [Member]
Restructuring Cost and Reserve [Line Items]
Restructuring Charges			12,504
Restructuring and Related Cost, Expected Cost Remaining			12,000
Non-cash adjustments			0
Industrial Restructuring Charges [Member]
Restructuring Cost and Reserve [Line Items]
Restructuring Charges			4,509
Non-cash adjustments			$ 0

Accrued Liabilities (Accrued Li

Accrued Liabilities (Accrued Liabilities) (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Sep. 30, 2018	Sep. 30, 2017	Sep. 30, 2016	Sep. 30, 2015
Accrued Liabilities [Line Items]
Salaries and other member benefits	$ 88,643	$ 91,285
Warranties	20,130	13,597	$ 15,993	$ 13,741
Interest payable	18,611	9,626
Current portion of acquired performance obligations and unfavorable contracts	1,627	1,627
Accrued retirement benefits	3,571	2,413
Restructuring Reserve, Current	16,522	0
Current portion of deferred income from JV formation (Note 4)	7,087	6,451
Deferred revenues	2,572	4,625
Taxes, other than income	21,128	14,401
Other	13,377	9,704
Accrued liabilities	194,513	155,072
Loss Reserve On Contractual Lease Commitments [Member]
Accrued Liabilities [Line Items]
Restructuring Reserve, Current	$ 1,245	$ 1,343

Accrued Liabilities (Warranties

Accrued Liabilities (Warranties) (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2018	Sep. 30, 2017	Sep. 30, 2016
Accrued Liabilities
Warranties, beginning of period	$ 13,597	$ 15,993	$ 13,741
Warranty Expense, net of recoveries	5,158	9,135	9,902
Increases due to acquisition of L'Orange	6,045
Reductions for settling warranties	(4,413)	(11,692)	(7,802)
Foreign currency exchange rate changes	(257)	161	152
Warranties, end of period	$ 20,130	$ 13,597	$ 15,993

Accrued Liabilities (Loss Reser

Accrued Liabilities (Loss Reserve Activity) (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	3 Months Ended		12 Months Ended
	Jun. 30, 2017	Dec. 31, 2015	Sep. 30, 2018	Sep. 30, 2017	Sep. 30, 2016
Restructuring Cost and Reserve [Line Items]
Charges (gains)			$ 17,013
Loss reserve, noncurrent portion			2,686	$ 3,927
Loss Reserve On Contractual Lease Commitments [Member]
Restructuring Cost and Reserve [Line Items]
Restructuring charges, beginning of period		$ 2,464	5,270	9,242	$ 2,464
Charges (gains)		$ 8,165	0	0	8,165
Payments, net of sublease income			(1,339)	(1,650)	(1,387)
Non-cash adjustments	$ 2,322		0	(2,322)	0
Restructuring charges, end of period			3,931	$ 5,270	$ 9,242
Loss reserve, noncurrent portion			$ 2,686

Accrued Liabilities (Restructur

Accrued Liabilities (Restructuring Charges Activity) (Details) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2018USD ($)
Restructuring Cost and Reserve [Line Items]
Charges (gains)	$ 17,013
Employee Severance [Member]
Restructuring Cost and Reserve [Line Items]
Restructuring charges, beginning of period	0
Charges (gains)	17,013
Cash receipts (payments)	(491)
Non-cash activity	0
Restructuring charges, end of period	16,522
Duarte Relocation Restructuring Charges [Member]
Restructuring Cost and Reserve [Line Items]
Restructuring charges, beginning of period	0
Charges (gains)	12,504
Non-cash activity	0
Restructuring charges, end of period	12,504
Industrial Restructuring Charges [Member]
Restructuring Cost and Reserve [Line Items]
Restructuring charges, beginning of period	0
Charges (gains)	4,509
Cash receipts (payments)	(491)
Non-cash activity	0
Restructuring charges, end of period	$ 4,018

Other Liabilities (Details)

Other Liabilities (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Sep. 30, 2018	Sep. 30, 2017
Other Liabilities [Line Items]
Net accrued retirement benefits, less amounts recognized within accrued liabilities	$ 90,722	$ 52,211
Noncurrent portion of deferred income from JV formation	235,300	236,896
Total unrecognized tax benefits, net of offsetting adjustments	8,582	20,949
Noncurrent income taxes payable	12,494	0
Acquired unfavorable contracts	54	2,076
Deferred economic incentives	13,038	14,574
Loss reserve, noncurrent portion	2,686	3,927
Derivative liability	23,000	0
Other	12,179	14,165
Other liabilities	398,055	$ 344,798
Loss Reserve On Contractual Lease Commitments [Member]
Other Liabilities [Line Items]
Loss reserve, noncurrent portion	$ 2,686

Other (Income) Expense, Net (De

Other (Income) Expense, Net (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2018	Sep. 30, 2017	Sep. 30, 2016
Other (Income) Expense, Net
Equity interest in losses (earnings) of the JV (Note 4)	$ (3,339)	$ (2,568)	$ (6,204)
Net (gain) loss on sales of assets	(1,106)	(3,604)	(4,431)
Rent income	(170)	(254)	(315)
Net (gain) loss on investments in deferred compensation program	(1,661)	(1,833)	(1,062)
Loss on forward options derivative instrument (Note 7)	5,543	0	0
Other	(792)	(786)	(294)
Other (income) expense, net	$ (1,525)	$ (9,045)	$ (12,306)

Income Taxes (Narrative) (Detai

Income Taxes (Narrative) (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	3 Months Ended			9 Months Ended	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2018	Jun. 30, 2018	Dec. 31, 2017	Sep. 30, 2018	Sep. 30, 2018	Sep. 30, 2017	Sep. 30, 2016	Sep. 30, 2015
Income Taxes [Line Items]
Net discrete impacts of the enactment of the Tax Act		$ 3,671	$ 14,778		$ 10,860
Transition Tax Liability Period Adjustment	$ 12,420
Tax expense benefit anticipated repatriation taxes, Tax Act	3,083
Net impact on U.S. deferred tax assets and liabilities	222
Adjustment to prior period items, Tax Act	1,526
Total Accrued Transition Tax Liability	13,580			$ 13,580	13,580
Current Accrued Transition Tax Liability	1,086			1,086	1,086
Noncurrent Accrued Transition Tax Liability	12,494			12,494	12,494
Noncurrent income taxes payable	12,494			$ 12,494	$ 12,494	$ 0
Statutory tax rate			35.00%	21.00%	24.50%	35.00%	35.00%
Income tax expense (benefit) adjustments due to resolution of prior years' tax issues					$ 6,677
Deferred Tax Assets, Operating Loss Carryforwards, Foreign	6,071			$ 6,071	6,071	$ 4,707
Undistributed foreign earnings for which Woodward has not provided for taxes	199,845			199,845	199,845
Unrecognized Tax Benefits	8,364			8,364	8,364	20,132	$ 23,526	$ 21,469
Unrecognized tax benefits that, if recognized, would affect the effective tax rate	3,288			3,288	3,288	9,677
Accrued interest and penalties	$ 279			$ 279	$ 279	$ 1,273
Scenario, Forecast [Member]
Income Taxes [Line Items]
Statutory tax rate					21.00%

Income Taxes (Components of Inc

Income Taxes (Components of Income Tax Expense (Benefit)) (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2018	Sep. 30, 2017	Sep. 30, 2016
Current:
Federal	$ 39,979	$ 17,872	$ 81,127
State	3,697	1,379	6,067
Foreign	25,968	15,118	9,689
Deferred:
Federal	(10,519)	16,907	(40,801)
State	(3,784)	(2,561)	(9,054)
Foreign	(16,141)	3,525	(1,380)
Income tax expense	$ 39,200	$ 52,240	$ 45,648

Income Taxes (Net Discrete Impa

Income Taxes (Net Discrete Impact of Tax Act) (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	3 Months Ended			6 Months Ended	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2018	Jun. 30, 2018	Dec. 31, 2017	Mar. 31, 2018	Sep. 30, 2018
Income Taxes
Transition Tax	$ 7,589	$ 3,671	$ 14,778		$ 13,580
Impact on U.S. deferred tax assets and liabilities					(16,038)
Net changes in deferred tax liability associated with anticipated repatriation taxes					8,121
Total provision impact of the enactment of the Tax Act				$ 5,663
Impact on the US net deferred tax assets from IS audit changes and tax return adjustments		5,197
Income Tax Expense (Benefit) Related to Discrete Impacts in Tax Law		$ 3,671	$ 14,778		$ 10,860

Income Taxes (Earings Before In

Income Taxes (Earings Before Income Taxes by Geographical Area) (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	3 Months Ended								12 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2018	Jun. 30, 2018	Mar. 31, 2018	Dec. 31, 2017	Sep. 30, 2017	Jun. 30, 2017	Mar. 31, 2017	Dec. 31, 2016	Sep. 30, 2018	Sep. 30, 2017	Sep. 30, 2016
Income Taxes
United States									$ 181,671	$ 192,220	$ 175,146
Other countries									37,907	60,527	51,340
Consolidated earnings before income taxes	$ 79,027	$ 54,417	$ 48,647	$ 37,487	$ 86,765	$ 68,687	$ 50,236	$ 47,059	$ 219,578	$ 252,747	$ 226,486

Income Taxes (Composition of De

Income Taxes (Composition of Deferred Income Taxes) (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Sep. 30, 2018	Sep. 30, 2017
Deferred tax assets:
Defined benefit plans, other postretirement	$ 6,844	$ 11,947
Foreign net operating loss carryforwards	6,071	4,707
Inventory	23,549	29,444
Deferred and stock-based compensation	39,903	37,693
Defined benefit plans, pension	2,187	1,148
Deferred revenue	60,177	92,426
Other reserves	10,154	10,850
Tax credits and incentives	12,512	9,769
Other	9,887	7,700
Valuation allowance	(4,522)	(3,714)
Total deferred tax assets, net of valuation allowance	166,762	201,970
Deferred tax liabilities:
Goodwill and intangibles - net	(231,223)	(103,781)
Property, plant and equipment	(85,459)	(109,229)
Other	(4,425)	(2,418)
Total deferred tax liabilities	(321,107)	(215,428)
Net deferred tax liabilities	$ (154,345)	$ (13,458)

Income Taxes (Reconciliation of

Income Taxes (Reconciliation of U.S Statutory Rate to Effective Tax Rate) (Details)	3 Months Ended	9 Months Ended	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2017	Sep. 30, 2018	Sep. 30, 2018	Sep. 30, 2017	Sep. 30, 2016
Income Taxes
Statutory tax rate	35.00%	21.00%	24.50%	35.00%	35.00%
State income taxes, net of federal tax benefit			(0.50%)	(0.30%)	0.40%
Taxes on international activities			(1.80%)	(7.60%)	(2.20%)
Research credit			(4.80%)	(3.20%)	(3.60%)
Net excess income tax benefit from stock-based compensation			(1.40%)	(1.40%)	(2.60%)
Domestic production activities deduction			(1.60%)	(1.50%)	(2.10%)
Adjustments of prior period tax items			(5.00%)	(0.90%)	(0.20%)
Effect of U.S. federal corporate rate reduction on net beginning U.S. deferred tax liability			(5.00%)
Transition Tax			6.20%
Increased deferred tax liability associated with anticipated repatriation taxes			3.70%
Effect of US federal corporate rate reduction on net current year US deferred tax activity			2.00%
Other items, net			1.60%	0.60%	(1.30%)
Retroactive extension of research credit					(3.20%)
Effective tax rate			17.90%	20.70%	20.20%

Income Taxes (Reconciliation _2

Income Taxes (Reconciliation of the Beginning and Ending Amounts of Gross Unrecognized Tax Benefits) (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2018	Sep. 30, 2017	Sep. 30, 2016
Income Taxes
Beginning Balance	$ 20,132	$ 23,526	$ 21,469
Additions to current year tax positions	2,675	2,560	3,588
Reductions to prior year tax positions	(14,458)	(5,753)	(2,292)
Additions to prior year tax positions	15	3,501	761
Lapse of applicable statute of limitations		(3,702)
Ending Balance	$ 8,364	$ 20,132	$ 23,526

Retirement Benefits (Narrative)

Retirement Benefits (Narrative) (Details) shares in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2018USD ($)shares	Sep. 30, 2017USD ($)shares	Sep. 30, 2016USD ($)shares	Jun. 01, 2018USD ($)
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Value of Company Stock Contributed to Defined Contribution Benefit Plans	$ 14,741,000	$ 14,014,000	$ 13,999,000
Treasury Stock Issued During Period, Shares, Employee Benefit Plans | shares	202	199	317
Total stockholders equity
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Value of Company Stock Contributed to Defined Contribution Benefit Plans	$ 14,741,000	$ 14,014,000
Treasury Stock at Cost [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Value of Company Stock Contributed to Defined Contribution Benefit Plans	$ 7,584,000	$ 7,513,000
Treasury Stock Issued During Period, Shares, Employee Benefit Plans | shares	202	199
Woodward Retirement Savings Plan [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Shares of Woodward stock held in Woodward Retirement Savings Plan | shares	3,955	4,183
Accrued Employee Benefits, Current	$ 11,475,000	$ 11,355,000
Defined Benefit Pension Plan [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Pension obligation assumed in L'Orange aquisition	39,257,000
Current portion of pension obligation	1,322,000	3,000
Net periodic retirement (benefit) cost	(2,499,000)	(610,000)	$ (1,513,000)
Settlement loss			47,000
Defined Benefit Pension Plan [Member] | Business Acquisition, Acquiree - L'Orange [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Pension obligation assumed in L'Orange aquisition	39,257,000
Current portion of pension obligation				$ 1,143,000
Contributions paid - pensions	219,000
Net periodic retirement (benefit) cost	673,000
Other Postretirement Benefit Plans [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Current portion of pension obligation	2,249,000	2,410,000
Net periodic retirement (benefit) cost	778,000	1,301,000	1,068,000
Estimated future employer contributions in the next fiscal year	3,615,000
Accumulated benefit obligation	$ 27,985,000	32,252,000
Option to elect company provided medical insurance coverage up to this age and a Medicare supplemental plan after this age	65
Approximate number of current employees who may receive future benefits	9
Approximate number of retired employees eligible to receive or currently receiving benefits	740
Age employees were eligible to participate in plan	55
UNITED STATES | Defined Benefit Pension Plan [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Net periodic retirement (benefit) cost	$ (2,660,000)	(860,000)	(1,486,000)
Settlement loss			47,000
Estimated future employer contributions in the next fiscal year	$ 0
Discount rate support/source data	Woodward uses a bond portfolio matching analysis based on recently traded, non-callable bonds rated AA or better that have at least $50 million outstanding to determine the benefit obligations at year end
Accumulated benefit obligation	$ 150,032,000	161,130,000
UNITED STATES | Other Postretirement Benefit Plans [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Discount rate support/source data	Woodward used a bond portfolio matching analysis based on recently traded, non-callable bonds rated AA or better that have at least $50 million outstanding to determine the benefit obligations at year end
Duarte Plan, Defined Benefit [Member] | Defined Benefit Pension Plan [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Defined Benefit, Lump Sum Buyout Benefits Paid, Current Year		670,000
Defined Benefit, Lump Sum Buyout Benefits Paid, Expected	$ 0
Foreign Plan [Member] | Defined Benefit Pension Plan [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Pension obligation assumed in L'Orange aquisition	39,257,000
Current portion of pension obligation	1,322,000	3,000
Net periodic retirement (benefit) cost	$ 161,000	250,000	$ (27,000)
Discount rate support/source data	201820172016Germany:Weighted-average assumptions to determine benefit obligation at September 30:Discount rate 1.87 n/an/aRate of compensation increase 2.50 n/an/aWeighted-average assumptions to determine periodic benefit costs for years ended September 30:Discount rate - service cost 2.05 n/an/aDiscount rate - interest cost 1.49 n/an/aRate of compensation increase 2.50 n/an/aIn the United Kingdom, Germany and Japan, Woodward uses a high-quality corporate bond yield curve matched with separate cash flows to develop a single rate to determine the single rate equivalent to settle the entire benefit obligations in each jurisdiction. For the fiscal years ended September 30, 2018 and 2017, the discount rate used to determine periodic service cost and interest cost components of the overall benefit costs was based on spot rates derived from the same high-quality corporate bond yield curve used to determine the September 30, 2017 and 2016 benefit obligation, respectively, matched with separate cash flows for each future year.
JAPAN | Defined Benefit Pension Plan [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Estimated future employer contributions in the next fiscal year	$ 224,000
Accumulated benefit obligation	9,795,000	10,007,000
UNITED KINGDOM | Defined Benefit Pension Plan [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Estimated future employer contributions in the next fiscal year	688,000
Accumulated benefit obligation	$ 50,594,000	$ 53,628,000
UNITED KINGDOM | Other Postretirement Benefit Plans [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Discount rate support/source data	Woodward uses a high-quality corporate bond yield curve matched with separate cash flows to develop a single rate to determine the single rate equivalent to settle the entire benefit obligations in each jurisdiction
GERMANY | Defined Benefit Pension Plan [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Estimated future employer contributions in the next fiscal year	$ 907,000
Accumulated benefit obligation	$ 40,358,000

Retirement Benefits (Schedule o

Retirement Benefits (Schedule of Costs of Retirement Plans) (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2018	Sep. 30, 2017	Sep. 30, 2016
Retirement Benefits [Abstract]
Company Costs - Defined Contribution	$ 34,084	$ 32,008	$ 31,893
Company Contributions - Multiemployer plan	$ 334	$ 292	$ 475

Retirement Benefits (Schedule_2

Retirement Benefits (Schedule of Assumptions Used) (Details)	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2018	Sep. 30, 2017	Sep. 30, 2016
Defined Benefit Pension Plan [Member] | UNITED STATES
Weighted-average assumptions to determine benefit obligation at September 30:
Discount rate	4.35%	3.80%	3.65%
Weighted-average assumptions to determine periodic benefit costs for years ending September 30:
Discount rate	3.80%	3.65%	4.39%
Long-term rate of return on plan assets	7.39%	7.38%	7.62%
Defined Benefit Pension Plan [Member] | JAPAN
Weighted-average assumptions to determine benefit obligation at September 30:
Discount rate	0.62%	0.58%	0.46%
Rate of compensation increase	2.00%	2.00%	2.02%
Weighted-average assumptions to determine periodic benefit costs for years ending September 30:
Defined Benefit Plan, Assumptions Used Calculating Net Periodic Benefit Cost, Discount Rate, Service Cost	0.72%	0.59%	1.27%
Defined Benefit Plan, Assumptions Used Calculating Net Periodic Benefit Cost, Discount Rate, Interest Cost	0.38%	0.45%	0.59%
Rate of compensation increase	2.00%	2.02%	2.00%
Long-term rate of return on plan assets	2.50%	2.50%	3.00%
Defined Benefit Pension Plan [Member] | UNITED KINGDOM
Weighted-average assumptions to determine benefit obligation at September 30:
Discount rate	2.68%	2.56%	2.28%
Rate of compensation increase	3.60%	3.60%	3.40%
Weighted-average assumptions to determine periodic benefit costs for years ending September 30:
Defined Benefit Plan, Assumptions Used Calculating Net Periodic Benefit Cost, Discount Rate, Service Cost	2.58%	2.33%	3.86%
Defined Benefit Plan, Assumptions Used Calculating Net Periodic Benefit Cost, Discount Rate, Interest Cost	2.36%	2.24%	3.63%
Rate of compensation increase	3.60%	3.40%	3.40%
Long-term rate of return on plan assets	4.75%	4.75%	5.00%
Defined Benefit Pension Plan [Member] | GERMANY
Weighted-average assumptions to determine benefit obligation at September 30:
Discount rate	1.87%
Rate of compensation increase	2.50%
Weighted-average assumptions to determine periodic benefit costs for years ending September 30:
Defined Benefit Plan, Assumptions Used Calculating Net Periodic Benefit Cost, Discount Rate, Service Cost	2.05%
Defined Benefit Plan, Assumptions Used Calculating Net Periodic Benefit Cost, Discount Rate, Interest Cost	1.49%
Rate of compensation increase	2.50%
Other Postretirement Benefit Plans [Member]
Weighted-average assumptions to determine benefit obligation at September 30:
Discount rate	4.30%	3.78%	3.63%
Weighted-average assumptions to determine periodic benefit costs for years ending September 30:
Discount rate	3.80%	3.63%	4.01%

Retirement Benefits (Schedule_3

Retirement Benefits (Schedule of estimated remaining cash contributions) (Details) $ in Thousands	Sep. 30, 2018USD ($)
Other Postretirement Benefit Plans [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Estimated future employer contributions in the next fiscal year	$ 3,615
UNITED STATES | Defined Benefit Pension Plan [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Estimated future employer contributions in the next fiscal year	0
UNITED KINGDOM | Defined Benefit Pension Plan [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Estimated future employer contributions in the next fiscal year	688
JAPAN | Defined Benefit Pension Plan [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Estimated future employer contributions in the next fiscal year	224
GERMANY | Defined Benefit Pension Plan [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Estimated future employer contributions in the next fiscal year	$ 907

Retirement Benefits (Schedule_4

Retirement Benefits (Schedule of Net Periodic Benefit Costs) (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2018	Sep. 30, 2017	Sep. 30, 2016
Defined Benefit Pension Plan [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Service cost	$ 2,767	$ 2,808	$ 2,444
Interest cost	7,530	6,965	6,873
Expected return on plan assets	(14,394)	(13,134)	(12,799)
Amortization of: Net (gains) losses	889	2,368	1,538
Amortization of: Prior service (benefit) cost	709	383	384
Settlement loss			47
Net periodic benefit cost	(2,499)	(610)	(1,513)
Other Postretirement Benefit Plans [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Service cost	7	14	22
Interest cost	1,165	1,244	1,048
Amortization of: Net (gains) losses	94	201	156
Amortization of: Prior service (benefit) cost	(158)	(158)	(158)
Curtailment (gain) loss	(330)
Net periodic benefit cost	778	1,301	1,068
UNITED STATES | Defined Benefit Pension Plan [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Service cost	1,643	1,675	1,695
Interest cost	6,004	5,757	5,236
Expected return on plan assets	(11,614)	(10,529)	(10,140)
Amortization of: Net (gains) losses	598	1,854	1,292
Amortization of: Prior service (benefit) cost	709	383	384
Settlement loss			47
Net periodic benefit cost	(2,660)	(860)	(1,486)
Foreign Plan [Member] | Defined Benefit Pension Plan [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Service cost	1,124	1,133	749
Interest cost	1,526	1,208	1,637
Expected return on plan assets	(2,780)	(2,605)	(2,659)
Amortization of: Net (gains) losses	291	514	246
Net periodic benefit cost	$ 161	$ 250	$ (27)

Retirement Benefits (Schedule_5

Retirement Benefits (Schedule of Changes in Projected Benefit Obligations, Fair Value of Plan Assets, and Funded Status of Plan) (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2018	Sep. 30, 2017	Sep. 30, 2016
Defined Benefit Pension Plan [Member]
Changes in projected benefit obligation:
Projected benefit obligation at beginning of year	$ 227,499	$ 232,949
Pension obligation assumed in L'Orange aquisition	39,257
Service cost	2,767	2,808	$ 2,444
Interest cost	7,530	6,965	6,873
Net actuarial (gains) losses	(13,511)	(11,455)
Contribution by participants	43	69
Benefits paid	(8,539)	(7,911)
Plan amendments		3,694
Foreign currency exchange rate changes	(1,529)	380
Projected benefit obligation at end of year	253,517	227,499	232,949
Changes in fair value of plan assets:
Fair value of plan assets at beginning of year	224,712	208,812
Actual return (loss) on plan assets	12,034	22,609
Contributions by the Company	994	671
Contributions by plan participants	43	69
Benefits paid (plan assets)	(8,539)	(7,911)
Foreign currency exchange rate changes	(1,522)	462
Fair value of plan assets at end of year	227,722	224,712	208,812
Net over/(under)funded status at end of year	(25,795)	(2,787)
Defined Benefit Pension Plan [Member] | UNITED STATES
Changes in projected benefit obligation:
Projected benefit obligation at beginning of year	161,130	160,892
Service cost	1,643	1,675	1,695
Interest cost	6,004	5,757	5,236
Net actuarial (gains) losses	(13,128)	(5,267)
Contribution by participants	34	55
Benefits paid	(5,651)	(5,676)
Plan amendments		3,694
Projected benefit obligation at end of year	150,032	161,130	160,892
Changes in fair value of plan assets:
Fair value of plan assets at beginning of year	160,332	145,886
Actual return (loss) on plan assets	10,627	20,067
Contributions by plan participants	34	55
Benefits paid (plan assets)	(5,651)	(5,676)
Fair value of plan assets at end of year	165,342	160,332	145,886
Net over/(under)funded status at end of year	15,310	(798)
Defined Benefit Pension Plan [Member] | Foreign Plan [Member]
Changes in projected benefit obligation:
Projected benefit obligation at beginning of year	66,369	72,057
Pension obligation assumed in L'Orange aquisition	39,257
Service cost	1,124	1,133	749
Interest cost	1,526	1,208	1,637
Net actuarial (gains) losses	(383)	(6,188)
Contribution by participants	9	14
Benefits paid	(2,888)	(2,235)
Foreign currency exchange rate changes	(1,529)	380
Projected benefit obligation at end of year	103,485	66,369	72,057
Changes in fair value of plan assets:
Fair value of plan assets at beginning of year	64,380	62,926
Actual return (loss) on plan assets	1,407	2,542
Contributions by the Company	994	671
Contributions by plan participants	9	14
Benefits paid (plan assets)	(2,888)	(2,235)
Foreign currency exchange rate changes	(1,522)	462
Fair value of plan assets at end of year	62,380	64,380	62,926
Net over/(under)funded status at end of year	(41,105)	(1,989)
Defined Benefit Pension Plan [Member] | JAPAN
Changes in projected benefit obligation:
Projected benefit obligation at end of year	10,844
Changes in fair value of plan assets:
Fair value of plan assets at end of year	11,520
Defined Benefit Pension Plan [Member] | UNITED KINGDOM
Changes in projected benefit obligation:
Projected benefit obligation at end of year	52,260
Changes in fair value of plan assets:
Fair value of plan assets at end of year	50,860
Defined Benefit Pension Plan [Member] | GERMANY
Changes in projected benefit obligation:
Projected benefit obligation at end of year	40,381
Changes in fair value of plan assets:
Fair value of plan assets at end of year	0
Other Postretirement Benefit Plans [Member]
Changes in projected benefit obligation:
Projected benefit obligation at beginning of year	32,252	35,630
Service cost	7	14	22
Interest cost	1,165	1,244	1,048
Net actuarial (gains) losses	2,716	2,049
Contribution by participants	1,311	1,365
Benefits paid	(3,707)	(3,964)
Curtailment (gain) loss	(330)
Foreign currency exchange rate changes	3	12
Projected benefit obligation at end of year	27,985	32,252	$ 35,630
Changes in fair value of plan assets:
Contributions by the Company	2,396	2,599
Contributions by plan participants	1,311	1,365
Benefits paid (plan assets)	(3,707)	(3,964)
Net over/(under)funded status at end of year	$ (27,985)	$ (32,252)

Retirement Benefits (Schedule_6

Retirement Benefits (Schedule of Accumulated Benefit Obligations In Excess of and Less Than Fair Value of Plan Assets) (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Sep. 30, 2018	Sep. 30, 2017
Plans with accumulated benefit obligation in excess of plan assets
Projected benefit obligation, plans with ABO in excess of plan assets	$ (65,938)	$ (82,447)
Accumulated benefit obligation, plans with ABO in excess of plan assets	(65,915)	(80,759)
Fair value of plan assets, plans with ABO in excess of plan assets	23,385	77,036
Plans with accumulated benefit obligation less than plan assets
Projected benefit obligation, plans with ABO less than plan assets	(187,579)	(145,052)
Accumulated benefit obligation, plans with ABO less than plan assets	(184,864)	(144,006)
Fair value of plan assets, plans with ABO less than plan assets	$ 204,337	$ 147,676

Retirement Benefits (Schedule_7

Retirement Benefits (Schedule of Amounts Recognized in Balance Sheet and Other Comprehensive Income (Loss)) (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Sep. 30, 2018	Sep. 30, 2017	Sep. 30, 2016
Defined Benefit Pension Plan [Member]
Amounts recognized in statement of financial position consist of:
Other non-current assets	$ 18,158	$ 2,623
Accrued liabilities	(1,322)	(3)
Other non-current liabilities	(42,631)	(5,407)
Net over/(under)funded status at end of year	(25,795)	(2,787)
Amounts recognized in accumulated other comprehensive loss (income) consist of:
Unrecognized net prior service (benefit) cost	6,459	7,169
Unrecognized net (gains) losses	18,814	31,221
Total amounts recognized	25,273	38,390	$ 58,334
Deferred taxes	(10,973)	(14,240)
Amounts recognized in accumulated other comprehensive loss (income)	14,300	24,150
Other Postretirement Benefit Plans [Member]
Amounts recognized in statement of financial position consist of:
Accrued liabilities	(2,249)	(2,410)
Other non-current liabilities	(25,736)	(29,842)
Net over/(under)funded status at end of year	(27,985)	(32,252)
Amounts recognized in accumulated other comprehensive loss (income) consist of:
Unrecognized net prior service (benefit) cost	(1)	(160)
Unrecognized net (gains) losses	425	3,234
Total amounts recognized	424	3,074	5,166
Deferred taxes	(518)	(1,183)
Amounts recognized in accumulated other comprehensive loss (income)	(94)	1,891
UNITED STATES | Defined Benefit Pension Plan [Member]
Amounts recognized in statement of financial position consist of:
Other non-current assets	17,068	1,726
Other non-current liabilities	(1,758)	(2,524)
Net over/(under)funded status at end of year	15,310	(798)
Amounts recognized in accumulated other comprehensive loss (income) consist of:
Unrecognized net prior service (benefit) cost	6,459	7,169
Unrecognized net (gains) losses	4,285	17,023
Total amounts recognized	10,744	24,192	37,539
Deferred taxes	(5,892)	(9,224)
Amounts recognized in accumulated other comprehensive loss (income)	4,852	14,968
Foreign Plan [Member] | Defined Benefit Pension Plan [Member]
Amounts recognized in statement of financial position consist of:
Other non-current assets	1,090	897
Accrued liabilities	(1,322)	(3)
Other non-current liabilities	(40,873)	(2,883)
Net over/(under)funded status at end of year	(41,105)	(1,989)
Amounts recognized in accumulated other comprehensive loss (income) consist of:
Unrecognized net (gains) losses	14,529	14,198
Total amounts recognized	14,529	14,198	$ 20,795
Deferred taxes	(5,081)	(5,016)
Amounts recognized in accumulated other comprehensive loss (income)	$ 9,448	$ 9,182

Retirement Benefits (Schedule_8

Retirement Benefits (Schedule of Changes in accumulated other comprehensive losses for the defined benefit plans) (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2018	Sep. 30, 2017	Sep. 30, 2016
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Net (gain) loss arising during the period	$ (13,805)	$ (22,979)	$ 19,718
Loss (gain) due to settlement or curtailment arising during the period	(59)		(47)
Amortization of: Net gains (losses)	(985)	(2,570)	(1,694)
Amortization of: Prior service benefit (cost)	(551)	3,470	(226)
Foreign currency exchange rate changes	(367)	43	(2,239)
Defined Benefit Pension Plan [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Accumulated other comprehensive loss (earnings), beginning of year	38,390	58,334
Net (gain) loss arising during the period	(11,151)	(20,930)
Amortization of: Net gains (losses)	(890)	(2,369)
Amortization of: Prior service benefit (cost)	(709)	3,312
Foreign currency exchange rate changes	(367)	43
Accumulated other comprehensive loss (earning), end of year	25,273	38,390	58,334
Other Postretirement Benefit Plans [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Accumulated other comprehensive loss (earnings), beginning of year	3,074	5,166
Net (gain) loss arising during the period	(2,654)	(2,049)
Loss (gain) due to settlement or curtailment arising during the period	(59)
Amortization of: Net gains (losses)	(95)	(201)
Amortization of: Prior service benefit (cost)	158	158
Accumulated other comprehensive loss (earning), end of year	424	3,074	5,166
UNITED STATES | Defined Benefit Pension Plan [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Accumulated other comprehensive loss (earnings), beginning of year	24,192	37,539
Net (gain) loss arising during the period	(12,141)	(14,805)
Amortization of: Net gains (losses)	(598)	(1,854)
Amortization of: Prior service benefit (cost)	(709)	3,312
Accumulated other comprehensive loss (earning), end of year	10,744	24,192	37,539
Foreign Plan [Member] | Defined Benefit Pension Plan [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Accumulated other comprehensive loss (earnings), beginning of year	14,198	20,795
Net (gain) loss arising during the period	990	(6,125)
Amortization of: Net gains (losses)	(292)	(515)
Foreign currency exchange rate changes	(367)	43
Accumulated other comprehensive loss (earning), end of year	$ 14,529	$ 14,198	$ 20,795

Retirement Benefits (Schedule_9

Retirement Benefits (Schedule of Amounts Expected to be Amortized from Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) and Reported as a Component of Net Periodic Benefit Cost During the Next Fiscal Year) (Details) - Defined Benefit Pension Plan [Member] $ in Thousands	Sep. 30, 2018USD ($)
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Defined Benefit Plan, Future Amortization of Prior Service Cost (Credit)	$ 709
Net actuarial (gains) losses	906
UNITED STATES
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Defined Benefit Plan, Future Amortization of Prior Service Cost (Credit)	709
Net actuarial (gains) losses	617
Foreign Plan [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Net actuarial (gains) losses	$ 289

Retirement Benefits (Schedul_10

Retirement Benefits (Schedule of Expected Benefit Payments) (Details) - Defined Benefit Pension Plan [Member] $ in Thousands	Sep. 30, 2018USD ($)
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
2,019	$ 10,005
2,020	10,399
2,021	11,264
2,022	11,700
2,023	12,751
2024 - 2028	68,884
UNITED STATES
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
2,019	6,531
2,020	7,217
2,021	7,819
2,022	8,342
2,023	8,840
2024 - 2028	49,244
Foreign Plan [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
2,019	3,474
2,020	3,182
2,021	3,445
2,022	3,358
2,023	3,911
2024 - 2028	$ 19,640

Retirement Benefits (Schedul_11

Retirement Benefits (Schedule of Allocation of Plan Assets, Actual and Target Allocations) (Details) - Defined Benefit Pension Plan [Member]	Sep. 30, 2018	Sep. 30, 2017
UNITED STATES | Other Investment Asset [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Actual Allocation of Plan Assets	1.80%	0.20%
UNITED STATES | Other Investment Asset [Member] | Minimum [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Target Allocation	0.00%	0.00%
UNITED STATES | Other Investment Asset [Member] | Maximum [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Target Allocation	0.00%	0.00%
UNITED STATES | Equity Securities [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Actual Allocation of Plan Assets	65.10%	64.60%
UNITED STATES | Equity Securities [Member] | Minimum [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Target Allocation	41.50%	41.20%
UNITED STATES | Equity Securities [Member] | Maximum [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Target Allocation	81.50%	81.20%
UNITED STATES | Debt Securities [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Actual Allocation of Plan Assets	33.10%	35.20%
UNITED STATES | Debt Securities [Member] | Minimum [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Target Allocation	28.50%	28.80%
UNITED STATES | Debt Securities [Member] | Maximum [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Target Allocation	48.50%	48.80%
UNITED KINGDOM | Other Investment Asset [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Actual Allocation of Plan Assets	0.40%	0.10%
UNITED KINGDOM | Other Investment Asset [Member] | Minimum [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Target Allocation	0.00%	0.00%
UNITED KINGDOM | Other Investment Asset [Member] | Maximum [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Target Allocation	0.00%	0.00%
UNITED KINGDOM | Equity Securities [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Actual Allocation of Plan Assets	44.80%	46.10%
UNITED KINGDOM | Equity Securities [Member] | Minimum [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Target Allocation	30.00%	30.00%
UNITED KINGDOM | Equity Securities [Member] | Maximum [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Target Allocation	60.00%	60.00%
UNITED KINGDOM | Debt Securities [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Actual Allocation of Plan Assets	54.80%	53.80%
UNITED KINGDOM | Debt Securities [Member] | Minimum [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Target Allocation	45.00%	45.00%
UNITED KINGDOM | Debt Securities [Member] | Maximum [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Target Allocation	70.00%	70.00%
JAPAN | Other Investment Asset [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Actual Allocation of Plan Assets	0.90%	0.90%
JAPAN | Other Investment Asset [Member] | Minimum [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Target Allocation	0.00%	0.00%
JAPAN | Other Investment Asset [Member] | Maximum [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Target Allocation	2.00%	2.00%
JAPAN | Equity Securities [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Actual Allocation of Plan Assets	41.00%	41.00%
JAPAN | Equity Securities [Member] | Minimum [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Target Allocation	36.00%	36.00%
JAPAN | Equity Securities [Member] | Maximum [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Target Allocation	44.00%	44.00%
JAPAN | Debt Securities [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Actual Allocation of Plan Assets	58.10%	58.10%
JAPAN | Debt Securities [Member] | Minimum [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Target Allocation	55.00%	55.00%
JAPAN | Debt Securities [Member] | Maximum [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Target Allocation	63.00%	63.00%

Retirement Benefits (Schedul_12

Retirement Benefits (Schedule of Allocation of Plan Assets, Fair Value Hierarchy) (Details) - Defined Benefit Pension Plan [Member] - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Sep. 30, 2018	Sep. 30, 2017	Sep. 30, 2016
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Fair value of plan assets	$ 227,722	$ 224,712	$ 208,812
Global Target Return Equity-Bond Fund [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Fair value of plan assets	12,495	13,103
Cash and Cash Equivalents [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Fair value of plan assets	3,225	458
Pooled funds: Index linked U.K. government securities fund [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Fair value of plan assets	4,913	4,980
Pooled funds: Index linked U.K. long-term government securities fund [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Fair value of plan assets	6,817	6,901
Mutual funds: U.S. corporate bond fund [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Fair value of plan assets	54,699	56,388
Pooled funds: Index linked U.K. corporate bonds fund [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Fair value of plan assets	16,121	16,540
Pooled funds: Japanese fixed income securities [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Fair value of plan assets	4,968	4,987
Pooled funds: International fixed income securities [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Fair value of plan assets	1,730	1,730
Mutual funds: U.S. equity large cap fund [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Fair value of plan assets	60,176	54,140
Mutual funds: International equity large cap growth fund [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Fair value of plan assets	47,559	49,513
Pooled funds: Japanese equity securities [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Fair value of plan assets	2,506	2,487
Pooled funds: International equity securities [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Fair value of plan assets	2,214	2,260
Pooled funds: Index linked U.K. equity fund [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Fair value of plan assets	4,326	4,940
Pooled funds: Index linked international equity fund [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Fair value of plan assets	5,973	6,285
UNITED STATES
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Fair value of plan assets	165,342	160,332	145,886
UNITED STATES | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 1 [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Fair value of plan assets	165,342	160,332
UNITED STATES | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 1 [Member] | Cash and Cash Equivalents [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Fair value of plan assets	2,908	291
UNITED STATES | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 1 [Member] | Mutual funds: U.S. corporate bond fund [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Fair value of plan assets	54,699	56,388
UNITED STATES | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 1 [Member] | Mutual funds: U.S. equity large cap fund [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Fair value of plan assets	60,176	54,140
UNITED STATES | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 1 [Member] | Mutual funds: International equity large cap growth fund [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Fair value of plan assets	47,559	49,513
Foreign Plan [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Fair value of plan assets	62,380	64,380	$ 62,926
Foreign Plan [Member] | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 1 [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Fair value of plan assets	317	167
Foreign Plan [Member] | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 1 [Member] | Cash and Cash Equivalents [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Fair value of plan assets	317	167
Foreign Plan [Member] | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 2 [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Fair value of plan assets	62,063	64,213
Foreign Plan [Member] | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 2 [Member] | Global Target Return Equity-Bond Fund [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Fair value of plan assets	12,495	13,103
Foreign Plan [Member] | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 2 [Member] | Pooled funds: Index linked U.K. government securities fund [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Fair value of plan assets	4,913	4,980
Foreign Plan [Member] | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 2 [Member] | Pooled funds: Index linked U.K. long-term government securities fund [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Fair value of plan assets	6,817	6,901
Foreign Plan [Member] | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 2 [Member] | Pooled funds: Index linked U.K. corporate bonds fund [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Fair value of plan assets	16,121	16,540
Foreign Plan [Member] | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 2 [Member] | Pooled funds: Japanese fixed income securities [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Fair value of plan assets	4,968	4,987
Foreign Plan [Member] | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 2 [Member] | Pooled funds: International fixed income securities [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Fair value of plan assets	1,730	1,730
Foreign Plan [Member] | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 2 [Member] | Pooled funds: Japanese equity securities [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Fair value of plan assets	2,506	2,487
Foreign Plan [Member] | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 2 [Member] | Pooled funds: International equity securities [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Fair value of plan assets	2,214	2,260
Foreign Plan [Member] | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 2 [Member] | Pooled funds: Index linked U.K. equity fund [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Fair value of plan assets	4,326	4,940
Foreign Plan [Member] | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 2 [Member] | Pooled funds: Index linked international equity fund [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Fair value of plan assets	5,973	$ 6,285
JAPAN
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Fair value of plan assets	11,520
UNITED KINGDOM
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Fair value of plan assets	50,860
GERMANY
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Fair value of plan assets	$ 0

Retirement Benefits (Schedul_13

Retirement Benefits (Schedule of Future Postretirement Company Contributions) (Details) $ in Thousands	Sep. 30, 2018USD ($)
Defined Benefit Pension Plan [Member] | UNITED STATES
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
2,019	$ 0
Defined Benefit Pension Plan [Member] | UNITED KINGDOM
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
2,019	688
Defined Benefit Pension Plan [Member] | JAPAN
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
2,019	224
Other Postretirement Benefit Plans [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
2,019	3,615
2,020	3,612
2,021	3,601
2,022	3,562
2,023	3,498
2024 - 2028	$ 16,124

Retirement Benefits (Schedul_14

Retirement Benefits (Schedule of Health Care Cost Trend Rates) (Details) - Other Postretirement Benefit Plans [Member]	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2018	Sep. 30, 2017
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Health care cost trend rate assumed for next year	6.50%	6.75%
Rate to which the cost trend rate is assumed to decline (the ultimate trend rate)	5.00%	5.00%
Year that the rate reaches the ultimate trend rate	2,025	2,025

Retirement Benefits (Schedul_15

Retirement Benefits (Schedule of Health Care Costs Sensitivity) (Details) - Other Postretirement Benefit Plans [Member] $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2018USD ($)
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Effect on projected fiscal year 2019 service and interest cost, 1% increase	$ 106
Effect on projected fiscal year 2019 service and interest cost, 1% decrease	(93)
Effect on accumulated postretirement benefit obligation, 1% increase	2,450
Effect on accumulated postretirement benefit obligation, 1% decrease	$ (2,165)

Stockholders' Equity (Narrative

Stockholders' Equity (Narrative) (Details) - USD ($) $ / shares in Units, $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2018	Sep. 30, 2017	Sep. 30, 2016
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Payments for repurchases of common stock	$ 0	$ 71,751	$ 125,541
Exercise prices of stock options outstanding	$ 45.42	$ 39.58
Employee stock-based compensation expense	$ 18,229	$ 17,282	15,122
Total unrecognized compensation cost related to non-vested stock-based compensation arrangements	$ 9,887
Unrecognized compensation cost is expected to be recognized over a weighted-average period	1 year 9 months 18 days
Forfeiture rate, Board of Directors	0.00%
Forfeiture rate, non-Board of Directors	9.00%
Shares granted, Number of Shares	10,000
Stock Options [Member]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Vested contractual term, in years	10 years
Vesting rate	25.00%
Vesting period, in years	4 years
Restricted Stock Award [Member]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Vesting rate	50.00%
Vesting period, in years	2 years
2017 Authorization [Member]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Authorized repurchase amount	$ 500,000
Payments for repurchases of common stock		$ 71,197
Repurchase period in years	3 years
Purchases of treasury stock, number of shares	0	1,027,000
Number of shares available for future grants	1,300
Goldman Sachs Accelerated Share Repurchase Program [Member]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Authorized repurchase amount			125,000
Purchases of treasury stock			$ 125,000
Purchases of treasury stock, number of shares			2,635,000
10b5-1 Plan [Member]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Purchases of treasury stock, number of shares		491,000
10b-18 Plan [Member]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Purchases of treasury stock, number of shares		536,000
Minimum [Member]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Exercise prices of stock options outstanding	$ 18.67
Maximum [Member]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Exercise prices of stock options outstanding	$ 78.97

Stockholders' Equity (Dividends

Stockholders' Equity (Dividends Declared and Paid) (Details) - USD ($) $ / shares in Units, $ in Thousands	3 Months Ended								12 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2018	Jun. 30, 2018	Mar. 31, 2018	Dec. 31, 2017	Sep. 30, 2017	Jun. 30, 2017	Mar. 31, 2017	Dec. 31, 2016	Sep. 30, 2018	Sep. 30, 2017	Sep. 30, 2016
Equity
Dividends declared and paid									$ 34,003	$ 29,745	$ 26,606
Cash dividends per share	$ 0.1425	$ 0.1425	$ 0.1425	$ 0.1250	$ 0.1250	$ 0.1250	$ 0.1250	$ 0.1100	$ 0.5525	$ 0.4850	$ 0.4300

Stock-Based Compensation (Sched

Stock-Based Compensation (Schedule of Assumptions Used in Estimate of Fair Value of Stock Option Awards) (Details)	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2018	Sep. 30, 2017	Sep. 30, 2016
Minimum [Member]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Expected term	6 years 4 months 24 days	6 years	6 years 3 months 18 days
Estimated volatility	29.10%	30.60%	34.50%
Estimated dividend yield	0.60%	0.70%	1.00%
Risk-free interest rate	2.10%	2.00%	1.70%
Maximum [Member]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Expected term	8 years 8 months 12 days	8 years 8 months 12 days	8 years 8 months 12 days
Estimated volatility	32.70%	33.70%	35.10%
Estimated dividend yield	0.80%	0.70%	1.00%
Risk-free interest rate	2.80%	2.50%	2.00%

Stockholders' Equity (Schedule

Stockholders' Equity (Schedule of Assumptions Used in Estimate of Fair Value of Stock Option Awards) (Details) - $ / shares	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2018	Sep. 30, 2017	Sep. 30, 2016
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Weighted-average grant date market value of Woodward stock	$ 78.91	$ 69.45	$ 40.26
Weighted-average exercise price per share	78.91	62.74	40.26
Minimum [Member]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Weighted-average grant date market value of Woodward stock	78.91	69.45	40.26
Weighted-average exercise price per share	$ 78.91	$ 62.74	$ 40.26
Expected term	6 years 4 months 24 days	6 years	6 years 3 months 18 days
Estimated volatility	29.10%	30.60%	34.50%
Estimated dividend yield	0.60%	0.70%	1.00%
Risk-free interest rate	2.10%	2.00%	1.70%
Maximum [Member]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Expected term	8 years 8 months 12 days	8 years 8 months 12 days	8 years 8 months 12 days
Estimated volatility	32.70%	33.70%	35.10%
Estimated dividend yield	0.80%	0.70%	1.00%
Risk-free interest rate	2.80%	2.50%	2.00%

Stockholders' Equity (Weighted

Stockholders' Equity (Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value of Options Granted) (Details) - $ / shares	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2018	Sep. 30, 2017	Sep. 30, 2016
Stock-Based Compensation
Options granted, Weighted-Average Grant Date Fair Value Per Share	$ 25.66	$ 24.98	$ 13.39

Stockholders' Equity (Activity

Stockholders' Equity (Activity for Stock Option Awards) (Details) shares in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2018$ / sharesshares
Stock-Based Compensation
Number of options, beginning balance | shares	5,236
Weighted Average Exercise Price Per Share, beginning balance | $ / shares	$ 39.58
Options granted, Number of options | shares	750
Options granted, Weighted Average Exercise Price Per Share | $ / shares	$ 78.91
Options exercised, Number of options | shares	(334)
Options exercised, Weighted Average Exercise Price Per Share | $ / shares	$ 27.34
Options forfeited, Number of options | shares	(41)
Options forfeited, Weighted Average Exercise Price Per Share | $ / shares	$ 59.64
Number of options, ending balance | shares	5,611
Weighted Average Exercise Price Per Share, ending balance | $ / shares	$ 45.42

Stockholders' Equity (Changes i

Stockholders' Equity (Changes in Nonvested Stock Options) (Details) - $ / shares shares in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2018	Sep. 30, 2017	Sep. 30, 2016
Stock-Based Compensation
Number of Options, beginning balance	2,072
Weighted-Average Grant Date Fair Value Per Share, beginning balance	$ 18.61
Options granted, Number of options	750
Options granted, Weighted-Average Grant Date Fair Value Per Share	$ 25.66	$ 24.98	$ 13.39
Options vested, Number of options	(793)
Options vested, Weighted-Average Grant Date Fair Value Per Share	$ 17.58
Options forfeited, Number of options	(41)
Options forfeited, Weighted-Average Grant Date Fair Value Per Share	$ 20.80
Number of Options, ending balance	1,988	2,072
Weighted-Average Grant Date Fair Value Per Share, ending balance	$ 21.64	$ 18.61

Stockholders' Equity (Stock Opt

Stockholders' Equity (Stock Options Vested, Or Expected to Vest and Are Exercisable) (Details) - USD ($) $ / shares in Units, shares in Thousands, $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2018	Sep. 30, 2017
Stock-Based Compensation
Options outstanding, Number of options	5,611	5,236
Options outstanding, Weighted-Average Exercise Price	$ 45.42	$ 39.58
Options outstanding, Weighted-Average Remaining Life in Years	5 years 7 months 6 days
Options outstanding, Aggregate Intrinsic Value	$ 198,843
Options vested and exercisable, Number of options	3,623
Options vested and exercisable, Weighted-Average Exercise Price Per Share	$ 36.50
Options vested and exercisable, Weighted-Average Remaining Life in Years	4 years 3 months 18 days
Options vested and exercisable, Aggregate Intrinsic Value	$ 160,703
Options vested and expected to vest, Number of options	5,551
Options vested and expected to vest, Weighted-Average Exercise Price Per Share	$ 45.17
Options vested and to expected vest, Weighted-Average Remaining Life in Years	5 years 7 months 6 days
Options vested and expected to vest, Aggregate Intrinsic Value	$ 198,108

Stockholders' Equity (Other Sto

Stockholders' Equity (Other Stock Option Information) (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2018	Sep. 30, 2017	Sep. 30, 2016
Stock-Based Compensation
Total fair value of stock options vested	$ 13,944	$ 11,639	$ 10,374
Total intrinsic value of options exercised	16,690	16,416	23,178
Cash received from exercises of stock options	9,132	14,196	15,892
Excess tax benefit realized from exercise of stock options	$ 3,524	$ 4,383	$ 6,472

Stockholders' Equity (Changes_2

Stockholders' Equity (Changes in Restricted Stock Awards) (Details) shares in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2018$ / sharesshares
Stock-Based Compensation
Shares granted, Number of Shares | shares	10
Shares granted, Weighted-Average Grant Date Fair Value Per Share | $ / shares	$ 82.71
Number of shares, ending balance | shares	10
Weighted-Average Grant Date Fair Value Per Share, ending balance | $ / shares	$ 82.71

Stockholders' Equity (Stock-bas

Stockholders' Equity (Stock-based Compensation Expense Recognized) (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2018	Sep. 30, 2017	Sep. 30, 2016
Stock-Based Compensation
Employee stock-based compensation expense	$ 18,229	$ 17,282	$ 15,122

Commitments and Contingencies_2

Commitments and Contingencies (Future Minimum Lease Payments) (Details) $ in Thousands	Sep. 30, 2018USD ($)
Commitments and Contingencies Disclosure
Operating 2,019	$ 7,579
Operating 2,020	4,808
Operating 2,021	4,228
Operating 2,022	3,227
Operating 2,023	2,542
Operating Thereafter	3,636
Operating Lease, Future Rental Payments Due	26,020
Capital 2,019	566
Capital 2,020	212
Capital 2,021	118
Capital Leases, Future Minimum Payments Due	$ 896

Commitments and Contingencies_3

Commitments and Contingencies (Rent Expense for All Operating Leases) (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2018	Sep. 30, 2017	Sep. 30, 2016
Commitments and Contingencies Disclosure
Rent expense	$ 8,348	$ 8,302	$ 7,359

Commitments and Contingencies_4

Commitments and Contingencies (Future Minimum Unconditional Purchase Obligations) (Details) $ in Thousands	Sep. 30, 2018USD ($)
Commitments and Contingencies Disclosure
2,019	$ 429,409
2,020	25,636
2,021	1
2,022	0
2,023	0
Thereafter	0
Total	$ 455,046

Segment Information (Narrative)

Segment Information (Narrative) (Details) - segment	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2018	Sep. 30, 2017	Sep. 30, 2016
Segment, Reporting Information [Line Items]
Number of Reportable Segments	2
General Electric [Member] | Sales [Member]
Segment, Reporting Information [Line Items]
Percentage of total attributable to major customer	16.00%	16.00%	17.00%
General Electric [Member] | Trade Accounts Receivable [Member]
Segment, Reporting Information [Line Items]
Percentage of total attributable to major customer	8.00%	10.00%
U.S. Government Related [Member]
Segment, Reporting Information [Line Items]
Percentage of total attributable to major customer	23.00%	23.00%	21.00%
U.S. Government Related [Member] | Trade Accounts Receivable [Member]
Segment, Reporting Information [Line Items]
Percentage of total attributable to major customer	3.00%	3.00%
The Boeing Company [Member] | Sales [Member]
Segment, Reporting Information [Line Items]
Percentage of total attributable to major customer	12.00%	11.00%	8.00%
The Boeing Company [Member] | Trade Accounts Receivable [Member]
Segment, Reporting Information [Line Items]
Percentage of total attributable to major customer	14.00%	9.00%

Segment Information (Consolidat

Segment Information (Consolidated Net Sales and Earnings by Segment) (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	3 Months Ended								6 Months Ended	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2018	Jun. 30, 2018	Mar. 31, 2018	Dec. 31, 2017	Sep. 30, 2017	Jun. 30, 2017	Mar. 31, 2017	Dec. 31, 2016	Mar. 31, 2018	Sep. 30, 2018	Sep. 30, 2017	Sep. 30, 2016
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Net sales	$ 719,359	$ 588,117	$ 548,249	$ 470,148	$ 606,788	$ 548,622	$ 500,381	$ 442,894		$ 2,325,873	$ 2,098,685	$ 2,023,078
Interest expense, net	(9,957)	(7,536)	(6,216)	(6,387)	(6,543)	(6,411)	(6,316)	(6,435)		(30,096)	(25,705)	(24,751)
Consolidated earnings before income taxes	79,027	54,417	48,647	37,487	86,765	68,687	50,236	47,059		219,578	252,747	226,486
Restructuring Costs									$ 17,013	17,013
Aerospace [Member]
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Net sales	461,128	404,612	386,343	305,905	399,141	355,992	320,526	266,680		1,557,988	1,342,339	1,233,176
Segment earnings (loss)	103,082	82,199	72,969	43,553	85,536	67,173	58,227	46,877		301,803	257,813	232,166
Industrial [Member]
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Net sales	258,231	183,505	161,906	164,243	207,647	192,630	179,855	176,214		767,885	756,346	789,902
Segment earnings (loss)	7,907	10,450	10,237	19,344	23,034	20,870	17,089	17,998		47,938	78,991	82,237
Unallocated Corporate [Member]
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Segment earnings (loss)	$ (22,005)	$ (30,696)	$ (28,343)	$ (19,023)	$ (15,262)	$ (12,945)	$ (18,764)	$ (11,381)		$ (100,067)	$ (58,352)	$ (63,166)

Segment Information (Consolid_2

Segment Information (Consolidated Total Assets by Segment) (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Sep. 30, 2018	Sep. 30, 2017	Sep. 30, 2016
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Assets	$ 3,790,649	$ 2,757,109	$ 2,642,362
Other unallocated assets	240,212	234,301	209,683
Property, plant and equipment, net	1,060,005	922,043
Aerospace [Member]
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Assets	1,805,892	1,722,789	1,637,522
Industrial [Member]
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Assets	1,642,462	695,264	705,169
Unallocated Corporate [Member]
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Property, plant and equipment, net	$ 102,083	$ 104,755	$ 89,988

Segment Information (Consolid_3

Segment Information (Consolidated Depreciation and Amortization by Segment) (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2018	Sep. 30, 2017	Sep. 30, 2016
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Depreciation and amortization	$ 116,131	$ 80,917	$ 69,036
Unallocated Corporate [Member]
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Depreciation and amortization	9,608	9,219	7,799
Aerospace [Member]
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Depreciation and amortization	54,828	47,277	40,825
Industrial [Member]
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Depreciation and amortization	$ 51,695	$ 24,421	$ 20,412

Segment Information (Consolid_4

Segment Information (Consolidated Capital Expenditures by Segment) (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2018	Sep. 30, 2017	Sep. 30, 2016
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Capital expenditures	$ 127,140	$ 92,336	$ 175,692
Unallocated Corporate [Member]
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Capital expenditures	11,673	17,335	22,878
Aerospace [Member]
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Capital expenditures	98,358	62,812	90,749
Industrial [Member]
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Capital expenditures	$ 17,109	$ 12,189	$ 62,065

Segment Information (U.S. Gover

Segment Information (U.S. Government Related Sales by Segment) (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	3 Months Ended								12 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2018	Jun. 30, 2018	Mar. 31, 2018	Dec. 31, 2017	Sep. 30, 2017	Jun. 30, 2017	Mar. 31, 2017	Dec. 31, 2016	Sep. 30, 2018	Sep. 30, 2017	Sep. 30, 2016
Segment, Reporting Information [Line Items]
Net sales	$ 719,359	$ 588,117	$ 548,249	$ 470,148	$ 606,788	$ 548,622	$ 500,381	$ 442,894	$ 2,325,873	$ 2,098,685	$ 2,023,078
Aerospace [Member]
Segment, Reporting Information [Line Items]
Net sales	461,128	404,612	386,343	305,905	399,141	355,992	320,526	266,680	1,557,988	1,342,339	1,233,176
Industrial [Member]
Segment, Reporting Information [Line Items]
Net sales	$ 258,231	$ 183,505	$ 161,906	$ 164,243	$ 207,647	$ 192,630	$ 179,855	$ 176,214	767,885	756,346	789,902
U.S. Government Related [Member]
Segment, Reporting Information [Line Items]
Net sales									$ 524,843	$ 483,761	$ 430,373
Percentage of total attributable to major customer									23.00%	23.00%	21.00%
U.S. Government Related [Member] | Aerospace [Member]
Segment, Reporting Information [Line Items]
Net sales									$ 513,638	$ 469,221	$ 413,978
U.S. Government Related [Member] | Industrial [Member]
Segment, Reporting Information [Line Items]
Net sales									11,205	14,540	16,395
Indirect Sales to U.S. Government [Member]
Segment, Reporting Information [Line Items]
Net sales									$ 438,044	$ 373,350	$ 320,797
Percentage of total attributable to major customer									19.00%	18.00%	16.00%
Indirect Sales to U.S. Government [Member] | Aerospace [Member]
Segment, Reporting Information [Line Items]
Net sales									$ 429,386	$ 362,536	$ 310,952
Indirect Sales to U.S. Government [Member] | Industrial [Member]
Segment, Reporting Information [Line Items]
Net sales									8,658	10,814	9,845
Direct Sales to U.S. Government [Member]
Segment, Reporting Information [Line Items]
Net sales									$ 86,799	$ 110,411	$ 109,576
Percentage of total attributable to major customer									4.00%	5.00%	5.00%
Direct Sales to U.S. Government [Member] | Aerospace [Member]
Segment, Reporting Information [Line Items]
Net sales									$ 84,252	$ 106,685	$ 103,026
Direct Sales to U.S. Government [Member] | Industrial [Member]
Segment, Reporting Information [Line Items]
Net sales									$ 2,547	$ 3,726	$ 6,550
Sales [Member] | General Electric [Member]
Segment, Reporting Information [Line Items]
Percentage of total attributable to major customer									16.00%	16.00%	17.00%
Trade Accounts Receivable [Member] | U.S. Government Related [Member]
Segment, Reporting Information [Line Items]
Percentage of total attributable to major customer									3.00%	3.00%
Trade Accounts Receivable [Member] | General Electric [Member]
Segment, Reporting Information [Line Items]
Percentage of total attributable to major customer									8.00%	10.00%

Segment Information (External N

Segment Information (External Net Sales by Geographical Area) (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	3 Months Ended								12 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2018	Jun. 30, 2018	Mar. 31, 2018	Dec. 31, 2017	Sep. 30, 2017	Jun. 30, 2017	Mar. 31, 2017	Dec. 31, 2016	Sep. 30, 2018	Sep. 30, 2017	Sep. 30, 2016
Revenues from External Customers and Long-Lived Assets [Line Items]
Consolidated net sales	$ 719,359	$ 588,117	$ 548,249	$ 470,148	$ 606,788	$ 548,622	$ 500,381	$ 442,894	$ 2,325,873	$ 2,098,685	$ 2,023,078
United States [Member]
Revenues from External Customers and Long-Lived Assets [Line Items]
Net sales									1,350,708	1,211,902	1,118,833
All Other Countries [Member]
Revenues from External Customers and Long-Lived Assets [Line Items]
Net sales									138,191	119,806	137,661
Europe [Member]
Revenues from External Customers and Long-Lived Assets [Line Items]
Net sales									323,109	305,545	337,356
Germany [Member]
Revenues from External Customers and Long-Lived Assets [Line Items]
Net sales									230,834	173,180	200,545
Asia [Member]
Revenues from External Customers and Long-Lived Assets [Line Items]
Net sales									$ 283,031	$ 288,252	$ 228,683

Segment Information (Property,

Segment Information (Property, Plant, and Equipment - Net by Geographical Area) (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Sep. 30, 2018	Sep. 30, 2017
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Property, plant and equipment, net	$ 1,060,005	$ 922,043
United States [Member]
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Property, plant and equipment, net	922,734	872,947
Germany [Member]
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Property, plant and equipment, net	111,595	24,541
Other Countries [Member]
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Property, plant and equipment, net	$ 25,676	$ 24,555

Segment Information (Consolid_5

Segment Information (Consolidated Earnings by Segment) (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	3 Months Ended								12 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2018	Jun. 30, 2018	Mar. 31, 2018	Dec. 31, 2017	Sep. 30, 2017	Jun. 30, 2017	Mar. 31, 2017	Dec. 31, 2016	Sep. 30, 2018	Sep. 30, 2017	Sep. 30, 2016
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Interest expense, net	$ (9,957)	$ (7,536)	$ (6,216)	$ (6,387)	$ (6,543)	$ (6,411)	$ (6,316)	$ (6,435)	$ (30,096)	$ (25,705)	$ (24,751)
Consolidated earnings before income taxes	79,027	54,417	48,647	37,487	86,765	68,687	50,236	47,059	219,578	252,747	226,486
Aerospace [Member]
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Segment earnings (loss)	103,082	82,199	72,969	43,553	85,536	67,173	58,227	46,877	301,803	257,813	232,166
Industrial [Member]
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Segment earnings (loss)	7,907	10,450	10,237	19,344	23,034	20,870	17,089	17,998	47,938	78,991	82,237
Unallocated Corporate [Member]
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Segment earnings (loss)	$ (22,005)	$ (30,696)	$ (28,343)	$ (19,023)	$ (15,262)	$ (12,945)	$ (18,764)	$ (11,381)	$ (100,067)	$ (58,352)	$ (63,166)

Supplemental Quarterly Financ_3

Supplemental Quarterly Financial Data (Unaudited) (Narrative) (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	3 Months Ended				6 Months Ended	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2018	Jun. 30, 2018	Mar. 31, 2018	Dec. 31, 2017	Mar. 31, 2018	Sep. 30, 2018	Sep. 30, 2017	Sep. 30, 2016
Cost of forward option						$ 5,543	$ 0	$ 0
Restructuring Costs					$ 17,013	17,013
Transition Tax	$ 7,589	$ 3,671		$ 14,778		13,580
Business Acquisition, Acquiree - L'Orange [Member]
Net sales since acquisition date	78,027	24,878				102,905
Non cash acquisition related charges	26,086	8,299
Transaction costs	850	3,077	$ 1,281			12,886
Cost of forward option		5,543				$ 5,543
Business Acquisition, Acquiree - L'Orange [Member] | Warranty and indemnity insurance transation costs [Member]
Transaction costs		4,293
Business Acquisition, Acquiree - L'Orange [Member] | German real estate transfer tax transaction cost [Member]
Transaction costs		3,385
Duarte Relocation Restructuring Charges [Member]
Restructuring Costs			17,013
Industrial [Member] | Business Acquisition, Acquiree - L'Orange [Member]
Net sales since acquisition date	78,027	24,878
Non cash acquisition related charges	26,086	8,299
Unallocated Corporate [Member] | Business Acquisition, Acquiree - L'Orange [Member]
Transaction costs	$ 850	3,077	1,281
Cost of forward option		5,543
Unallocated Corporate [Member] | Business Acquisition, Acquiree - L'Orange [Member] | Warranty and indemnity insurance transation costs [Member]
Transaction costs		4,293
Unallocated Corporate [Member] | Business Acquisition, Acquiree - L'Orange [Member] | German real estate transfer tax transaction cost [Member]
Transaction costs		$ 3,385
Unallocated Corporate [Member] | Duarte Relocation Restructuring Charges [Member]
Restructuring Costs			$ 17,013

Schedule II (Details)

Schedule II (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2018	Sep. 30, 2017	Sep. 30, 2016
SEC Schedule, 12-09, Valuation and Qualifying Accounts Disclosure [Line Items]
Currency translation adjustments	$ (96)	$ 64	$ 77
SEC Schedule, 12-09, Allowance, Credit Loss [Member]
SEC Schedule, 12-09, Valuation and Qualifying Accounts Disclosure [Line Items]
Balance at Beginning of Year	3,776	2,540	3,841
Additions: Charged to Costs and Expenses	207	1,063	255
Additions: Charged to Other Accounts	466	449	233
Deductions	(511)	(276)	(1,789)
Balance at End of Year	3,938	3,776	2,540
SEC Schedule, 12-09, Valuation Allowance, Deferred Tax Asset [Member]
SEC Schedule, 12-09, Valuation and Qualifying Accounts Disclosure [Line Items]
Balance at Beginning of Year	3,714	3,317	6,804
Additions: Charged to Costs and Expenses	73	77	53
Additions: Charged to Other Accounts	553
Deductions	182	320	(3,540)
Balance at End of Year	$ 4,522	$ 3,714	$ 3,317

Supplemental Quarterly Financ_4

Supplemental Quarterly Financial Data (Unaudited) (Quarterly Financial Information) (Details) - USD ($) $ / shares in Units, $ in Thousands	3 Months Ended								12 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2018	Jun. 30, 2018	Mar. 31, 2018	Dec. 31, 2017	Sep. 30, 2017	Jun. 30, 2017	Mar. 31, 2017	Dec. 31, 2016	Sep. 30, 2018	Sep. 30, 2017	Sep. 30, 2016
Quarterly Financial Data
Net sales	$ 719,359	$ 588,117	$ 548,249	$ 470,148	$ 606,788	$ 548,622	$ 500,381	$ 442,894	$ 2,325,873	$ 2,098,685	$ 2,023,078
Gross margin	175,696	160,220	146,918	123,364	171,659	153,872	133,282	113,746
Earnings before income taxes	79,027	54,417	48,647	37,487	86,765	68,687	50,236	47,059	219,578	252,747	226,486
Net Earnings:
Net earnings	$ 74,512	$ 49,117	$ 38,489	$ 18,260	$ 62,228	$ 53,626	$ 38,105	$ 46,548	$ 180,378	$ 200,507	$ 180,838
Earnings per share:
Basic earnings per share	$ 1.21	$ 0.80	$ 0.63	$ 0.30	$ 1.02	$ 0.87	$ 0.62	$ 0.76	$ 2.93	$ 3.27	$ 2.92
Diluted earnings per share	1.16	0.77	0.60	0.29	0.98	0.85	0.60	0.73	2.82	3.16	2.85
Cash dividends per share	$ 0.1425	$ 0.1425	$ 0.1425	$ 0.1250	$ 0.1250	$ 0.1250	$ 0.1250	$ 0.1100	$ 0.5525	$ 0.4850	$ 0.4300

Supplemental Quarterly Financ_5

Supplemental Quarterly Financial Data (Unaudited) (Quarterly Financial Information - Segment Reporting) (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	3 Months Ended								12 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2018	Jun. 30, 2018	Mar. 31, 2018	Dec. 31, 2017	Sep. 30, 2017	Jun. 30, 2017	Mar. 31, 2017	Dec. 31, 2016	Sep. 30, 2018	Sep. 30, 2017	Sep. 30, 2016
Supplemental Quarterly Financial Data [Line Items]
Net sales	$ 719,359	$ 588,117	$ 548,249	$ 470,148	$ 606,788	$ 548,622	$ 500,381	$ 442,894	$ 2,325,873	$ 2,098,685	$ 2,023,078
Interest expense, net	(9,957)	(7,536)	(6,216)	(6,387)	(6,543)	(6,411)	(6,316)	(6,435)	(30,096)	(25,705)	(24,751)
Consolidated earnings before income taxes	79,027	54,417	48,647	37,487	86,765	68,687	50,236	47,059	219,578	252,747	226,486
Aerospace [Member]
Supplemental Quarterly Financial Data [Line Items]
Net sales	461,128	404,612	386,343	305,905	399,141	355,992	320,526	266,680	1,557,988	1,342,339	1,233,176
Segment earnings (loss)	103,082	82,199	72,969	43,553	85,536	67,173	58,227	46,877	301,803	257,813	232,166
Industrial [Member]
Supplemental Quarterly Financial Data [Line Items]
Net sales	258,231	183,505	161,906	164,243	207,647	192,630	179,855	176,214	767,885	756,346	789,902
Segment earnings (loss)	7,907	10,450	10,237	19,344	23,034	20,870	17,089	17,998	47,938	78,991	82,237
Unallocated Corporate [Member]
Supplemental Quarterly Financial Data [Line Items]
Segment earnings (loss)	$ (22,005)	$ (30,696)	$ (28,343)	$ (19,023)	$ (15,262)	$ (12,945)	$ (18,764)	$ (11,381)	$ (100,067)	$ (58,352)	$ (63,166)

Uncategorized Items - wwd-20180

Label	Element	Value
Revolving Credit Agreement [Member]
Debt Issuance Costs, Line of Credit Arrangements, Net	us-gaap_DebtIssuanceCostsLineOfCreditArrangementsNet	$ 2,259,000
Debt Issuance Costs, Line of Credit Arrangements, Net	us-gaap_DebtIssuanceCostsLineOfCreditArrangementsNet	$ 1,385,000