Helicopter pilot reported the inability to use the TXK airport lighting as a visual aid to navigate due to the airport lighting being turned off while the Tower is open at night. Upon questioning; ATC stated the lights are turned off when there are no inbound aircraft as a cost cutting measure.

Narrative

At night; on the descent and initial approach phase going to [a local landing pad]; which is about 3 miles from Texarkana airport; transiting Class Delta airspace at Texarkana Airport; in contact with Tower; cleared to transition; there was no airport lighting whatsoever. This was the second time I transitioned their airspace and there was no airport lighting. I considered this less safe as the airport lighting contributes to situational awareness in flight and navigation. At night knowing where the airport is in relation to your destination landing zone adds overall situational awareness and safety of flight. I called the Tower on the phone to inquire as to why there was no airport lighting and was told that they turn the airport lighting off if there is no inbound aircraft to save on the electricity bill. As the flying pilot; before the Tower closes I cannot turn the airport lights on; when the Tower is closed the lights are switched to pilot controlled lighting and I am able to turn them on. I am asking that the FAA contact this Tower and set policy that if any aircraft is in their airspace while Class D is active and it is night time that the airport lighting be turned on even if the aircraft is not landing at their airport.