Large Transport; Low Wing; 2 Turbojet Eng
Flight Crew Air Transport Pilot (ATP)
Flight Crew Last 90 Days 184
Confusion; Distraction; Situational Awareness
ATC Issue All Types; Deviation / Discrepancy - Procedural Published Material / Policy; Ground Event / Encounter Object
Flight Crew Became Reoriented; Flight Crew Took Evasive Action
Chart Or Publication; Procedure; Airport
We were told to cross Runway 10 and taxi via E to the gate. As we crossed 10 and transitioned to the yellow line on Taxiway E (an immediate right hand turn); we encountered dimly lit barricades and had to brake the aircraft. Had the First Officer not been alert; there is a real possibility that we may have taxied into the lights. ATIS did advise that work was being done to Taxiway E. But the combination of a dark night and the taxi line heading into the barricades created a potential problem. This morning as we taxied out; we noticed skid marks just before the barricades (not caused by us). It was clear that we were not the only crew to encounter this issue.
The reporter stated that he believes Taxiway E is closed about 50 FT to 100 FT beyond where his aircraft exited Runway 19 onto E. He remembers seeing a NOTAM about Taxiway E and the restriction for aircraft with wingspans greater than 118 FT but he does not remember a taxiway closure NOTAM in the ramp area. He believes the signs; especially night markings; should be more clear and a NOTAM advising flight crews about what they can expect to see exiting Runway 19 should be issued.
An air carrier Captain reported stopping immediately after exiting Runway 19 onto Taxiway E after landing at night; because confusing barricades made it appear that the Taxiway was closed 50 FT to 100 FT after exiting the runway.