Preheat the air fryer to 200°C (400°F).

Cut any thick pickle spears in half lengthwise to create 1/2-inch thick spears.

In a shallow dish, mix together the all-purpose flour and black pepper.

In another shallow dish, whisk together the whole buttermilk and egg.

In a third shallow dish, combine the panko breadcrumbs and ranch dressing mix.

Dredge the pickle spears in the flour mixture, shaking off any excess.

Dip the floured pickles into the buttermilk mixture, ensuring they are evenly coated.

Coat the pickles with the panko breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to adhere the breadcrumbs.

Lightly coat the air fryer basket with cooking spray.

Place the coated pickle spears in a single layer in the basket, ensuring they are not touching.

Lightly spray the tops of the pickles with cooking spray for additional browning.

Air fry at 200°C (400°F) until the pickle fries are golden brown and crispy, about 8 minutes.

Repeat with any remaining pickle spears.

Remove the cooked pickle fries from the air fryer and sprinkle with chopped fresh chives.

Serve hot with ranch dressing or spicy ranch dressing for dipping, if desired.