Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (204°C).

Use kitchen shears to cut down the top of each lobster shell lengthwise (from the wide end down toward the tail, but not cutting through the bottom shell).

Gently spread the shell open and pull the lobster meat up so it sits on top of the shell — this is called “butterflying.”

In a small bowl, whisk together melted butter, garlic, lemon juice, smoked paprika, and cayenne pepper (if using).

Brush the butter-garlic mixture generously over the exposed lobster meat.

Arrange the lobster tails in the air fryer basket, meat-side up. Do not overcrowd.

Air fry for 5–6 minutes — for a 5 oz tail, this should be enough. Larger tails might need a minute or two more. The meat should turn opaque and firm.

Remove carefully, serve with lemon wedges and a sprinkle of chopped parsley. Extra melted butter on the side makes a great dipping sauce.