Combine sugar and spices in a bowl to make spice rub mixture.
Place ribs on a large cutting board, meat side down. Using a sharp knife, peel off the thin white membrane from the back of the ribs. Cutting this tough connective tissue can take time, and is not necessary, but will yield cooked ribs that are easier to cut and eat.
Season ribs lightly on both sides with salt and pepper, then rub the meat generously with the dry spice mixture. Let sit for 30 minutes at room temperature.
Preheat air fryer to 360 degrees F.
Place the seasoned ribs meat side up on a large foil lined sheet pan. Position the oven rack in the top 1/3 of the oven.
Air fry the ribs for 10 minutes, flip, and continue cooking for 10 minutes on the reverse side.
Remove ribs from the oven and brush liberally with BBQ sauce on the top side. Return to the oven and air fry for 5 minutes more.
Turn the ribs over. Repeat the process and cook for another 5 minutes.
Remove from the oven and let sit, tented with foil, for 5 minutes. Transfer the cooked rack to a cutting board, and slice into individual ribs.
Serve with additional BBQ sauce, and sides of your choice.
