Based on experiments carried out: in ice basins; with large-scale models of hovercraft in the field; with full-scale hovercraft, as well as using theoretical dependencies for calculating the stressstrain state of the ice cover from the action of moving loads, the possibilities (patterns) of the resonant method of ice destruction, i.e., by excitation of resonant flexural-gravity waves (FGW), were studied. Its physical essence, the expediency of its implementation by a hovercraft are explained, the possible areas of effective use of this method are indicated. The results of the information review on the topic of the work are given, on the basis of which the purpose of the research is set. When describing the viscoelastic nature of the relationship between stresses and strains in ice, the Kelvin-Voigt law of deformation of an elastically retarded medium was used. The theoretical bending potential energy density of an infinite plate was taken as a criterion for the ice breaking capacity of FGW. In this case, the condition is used that when it reaches a certain value, complete (with the opening of cracks) destruction of ice occurs. The initial data for these calculations are taken from the performed experiments. Dependences are given that make it possible to determine the parameters of a load moving at a resonant speed (hovercraft parameters) sufficient to destroy an ice cover of a given thickness under given ice conditions.