Start by removing the membrane from the back of the ribs. This will help the ribs become more tender and allow the rub to penetrate better. Use a paper towel for grip and pull it off gently.

Pat the ribs dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture, which helps the rub stick better.

Rub the olive oil all over the ribs to create a base for the dry rub.

In a mixing bowl, combine brown sugar, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper. Mix well until all ingredients are evenly distributed.

Generously apply the dry rub to both sides of the ribs, pressing it into the meat to ensure it adheres well.

Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for about 5 minutes. This ensures even cooking.

Place the ribs in the air fryer basket, bone side down. If your air fryer is small, you may need to cut the ribs into smaller sections.

Cook the ribs for 25 minutes. After 25 minutes, flip the ribs over and cook for an additional 15 minutes. This helps achieve a nice crust on both sides.

Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the ribs; they should reach at least 190°F (88°C) for optimal tenderness.

During the last 5 minutes of cooking, brush the barbecue sauce generously over the ribs. This allows the sauce to caramelize and adds a delicious sticky glaze.

Once done, remove the ribs from the air fryer and let them rest for about 5 minutes before slicing. This helps the juices redistribute.

Slice the ribs between the bones and serve with extra barbecue sauce on the side. Enjoy your delicious air fryer ribs!