| Cover Page | Mar. 02, 2020 |
| Cover page. | |
| Entity Registrant Name | CURTISS WRIGHT CORP |
| Entity Emerging Growth Company | false |
| Title of 12(b) Security | Common Stock |
| Entity Address, Address Line One | 130 Harbour Place Drive, Suite 300 |
| Entity Incorporation, State or Country Code | DE |
| Document Type | 8-K/A |
| Entity Central Index Key | 0000026324 |
| Amendment Flag | false |
| Document Period End Date | Mar. 2, 2020 |
| Entity File Number | 1-134 |
| Entity Tax Identification Number | 13-0612970 |
| Entity Address, Postal Zip Code | 28036 |
| City Area Code | 704 |
| Local Phone Number | 869-4600 |
| Written Communications | false |
| Soliciting Material | false |
| Pre-commencement Tender Offer | false |
| Pre-commencement Issuer Tender Offer | false |
| Trading Symbol | CW |
| Security Exchange Name | NYSE |
| Entity Address, State or Province | NC |
| Entity Address, City or Town | Davidson, |
