Commercial Fixed Wing
Situational Awareness; Distraction
Ground Event / Encounter Other / Unknown
General None Reported / Taken
Company Policy; Environment - Non Weather Related; Human Factors; Airport
The floodlights on the [SEA] North Satellite between spot 55 and spot 66 that (I think) are intended to illuminate the ramp are instead creating a safety hazard because they are totally blinding to pilots that are trying to taxi on taxiways B and W. The usual terminal floodlights are bad enough but these are bright and blinding. It makes me angry to think about it. These lights need to go away before they cause a serious accident.
The reporter stated the lights in question appeared to be temporary and are mounted on the commuter extension of the North Satellite near the N12 series gates. He was directed to taxi around the North Satellite's north end and because of the light contamination had difficulty seeing the taxiway centerline. He was unintentionally cutting slightly inside looking for the line and realized his aircraft was approaching a commuter aircraft pushed far back from the terminal which he was not advised of. Had he actually cut inside the taxiway; he may have struck the commuter aircraft's tail. Night operation in that area is hazardous and the reporter believes ATC; the Ramp and all involved should communicate more actively about night time aircraft movement in that area.
Air carrier Captain reported the ramp lights on the north end of the SEA North Satellite are blinding while taxiing on Taxiways B and W between Spots 66; over Spot 55 and beyond.