Hi there CasaSusannah,
If you're having issues pairing your AirPods with your MacBook Air, try the steps below to see if they resolve the issue for you:
If you can't connect to your Mac
1. Make sure that you have a Mac with the latest version of macOS.
2. Put both AirPods in the charging case and make sure that both AirPods are charging.
3. To make sure that Bluetooth is on, choose Apple menu > System Settings, then click Bluetooth.
4. If your AirPods are connected, make sure that they're selected as your audio device. If your AirPods appear in the list of devices but they don't connect, click the X to the right of your AirPods to remove them from the list.
5. Close the lid, wait 15 seconds, then open the lid. Press and hold the setup button on the charging case for up to 10 seconds. The status light should flash white, which means that your AirPods are ready to connect.
6. Hold the charging case, with your AirPods inside and the lid open, next to your Mac.
7. Follow the steps on the screen of your Mac.
8. Test your AirPods. If you still can't connect, reset your AirPods.
You'll find those steps here: If your AirPods won't connect - Apple Support
If you're still having difficulty pairing your AirPods with your Mac after working through the steps above, you'll want to reach out to Apple Support directly for further assistance. They're best-equipped to take a closer look at the issue and provide some additional guidance. This link will help you get started: Apple Support
Take care.