Commercial Fixed Wing
Flight Crew Air Transport Pilot (ATP); Flight Crew Multiengine; Flight Crew Instrument
Distraction; Confusion; Communication Breakdown; Physiological - Other; Situational Awareness
Ground Event / Encounter Ground Equipment Issue; No Specific Anomaly Occurred Unwanted Situation
General None Reported / Taken
Airport; Environment - Non Weather Related
After landing on Runway 34L; we exited on Taxiway A2. We entered the ramp directly from A2. As we entered the ramp; the first thing I noticed was how dark the entire ramp area is. In fact; the only light you can see is the illuminated gate number on top of the jetway and the lighted wands of the Ramp Personnel. I never try to approach the J- line with my taxi light illuminated out of courtesy to the Marshal; but I had no choice. I was unable to locate the taxi line. I have never experienced a ramp area that was so poorly lit. This is obviously a Safety concern for many reasons. Install proper ramp lighting to aid Ramp Personnel and Flight Crews.
There is no lighting in Jackson in the Safety Zone. It is very difficult to see if the Safety Zone is clear unless the Captain turns on the taxi and landing lights; which would hindrance the Ground Crew.
Air Carrier Captain reported the ramp area at JAN airport is poorly lighted and it's difficult to find the taxi line without using the aircraft's bright taxi light. The Captain is concerned using the aircraft's light is not safe for the ramp personnel.