Large Transport; Low Wing; 2 Turbojet Eng
Flight Crew Air Transport Pilot (ATP)
Flight Crew Last 90 Days 200; Flight Crew Total 14000; Flight Crew Type 4000
Communication Breakdown; Confusion; Situational Awareness
Ground Excursion Taxiway
Flight Crew Became Reoriented
Airport; Chart Or Publication; Environment - Non Weather Related; Weather
I followed the yellow line out after push back in the alley between C2 and C3; and nearly taxied right into a marked off area between A and B taxiways. The line I was following actually became the edge markings for that space. I don't know if this was an old line; the paint was faded; but it was dark and rainy and it was the only line I could see. Very dangerous.
Inadequate or erroneous EWR ramp markings and taxiway lighting during darkness in inclement weather led a disoriented pilot to enter Taxiway Alpha at the RJ instead of U which is poorly designated on the airport diagram.