The present invention relates to an air filter element comprising a first end and a second end located opposite to the first end in relation to a longitudinal direction of the air filter element. The air filter element is configured for axial insertion into a filter housing with the first end leading the axial insertion. The air filter element comprises a gripping structure at the second end, the gripping structure comprising an external surface accessible for interaction by a tool to facilitate removal of the air filter element from the filter housing. The gripping structure is also configured to, during insertion of the air filter element into the filter housing, radially align the air filter element in the filter housing.