Begin by preheating your air fryer to 350 degrees F for at least 3 minutes.
Slice off the top to create a flat surface. Peel away the outer skin. Turn the onion cut-side down and make several evenly spaced cuts down into the onion starting 1/2 inch from the root. Continue making cuts between the first ones until you have 16 sections.
Flip the onion over and gently separate the petals.
In a large bowl, mix together the whole wheat flour, smoked paprika, garlic powder, cayenne pepper (if using), thyme and oregano. In another bowl, whisk the eggs and almond milk until well combined.
Place the onion in a separate bowl, cut-side up, and spoon the flour mixture over it. Make sure each petal is well covered. Flip and tap off excess flour. Dip the onion into the egg mixture then dredge it back in the flour mixture for a second coat.
Now, you need to let the coating set. I usually chill the onion in the fridge for 10 minutes.
Spray the onion generously with oil from your spray bottle (this is the secret to a crispy texture).
Create a foil sling for easy handling and place the onion cut-side up in the air fryer basket. Cook for 25 minutes (or stop when you see it golden and crispy). Don't forget to spray the onion 2-3 times during the cooking.
Carefully remove the onion using the foil sling. Seaand serve immediately.