| Document and Entity Information | May 13, 2020 |
| Cover [Abstract] | |
| Entity Registrant Name | NORFOLK SOUTHERN CORP |
| Amendment Flag | false |
| Entity Central Index Key | 0000702165 |
| Document Type | 8-K |
| Document Period End Date | May 13, 2020 |
| Entity Incorporation State Country Code | VA |
| Entity File Number | 1-8339 |
| Entity Tax Identification Number | 52-1188014 |
| Entity Address, Address Line One | Three Commercial Place |
| Entity Address, City or Town | Norfolk |
| Entity Address, State or Province | VA |
| Entity Address, Postal Zip Code | 23510-9241 |
| City Area Code | 757 |
| Local Phone Number | 629-2680 |
| Written Communications | false |
| Soliciting Material | false |
| Pre Commencement Tender Offer | false |
| Pre Commencement Issuer Tender Offer | false |
| Security 12b Title | Norfolk Southern Corporation Common Stock (Par Value $1.00) |
| Trading Symbol | NSC |
| Security Exchange Name | NYSE |
| Entity Emerging Growth Company | false |
