An MD-80 flight crew reported leading edge slat disagree problem on initial slat extension. The procedures were run and a normal landing ensued; but the Captain regretted not declaring an emergency.

Narrative

While on a long vector to final approach with the airfield in sight; we were cleared a visual approach very early. At about 230 KTS; I commanded 'Below 280; Slats Extend' and then disconnected the autopilot and autothrottles. The First Officer confirmed the airspeed and then moved the Flap/Slat handle to the '0/Extend' position. The slat 'Disagree' and 'Stall Indication Failure' lights both illuminated. I called for both checklists and the First Officer read through each checklist to completion in a timely manner. From the beginning of this malfunction; I considered a go-around to give us more time before landing. Both checklists were completed and the aircraft stabilized on final approach well before landing. I felt that adding a minimum fuel state to our current situation was unnecessary. I landed the aircraft uneventfully.I should have declared an emergency for this malfunction. I was initially focused on getting the correct checklist run and monitoring our pace to determine if a go-around would be necessary. As the situation progressed; it became clear that there would be no need for extra vectors. We were visual for landing many miles out. Once the checklists were completed and the aircraft stabilized on final; I shifted to concentrating on the landing. The aircraft had no controllability problems. On very short final; I realized we had not declared an emergency; but to do so now would compromise safety by introducing unnecessary distraction at a critical phase of flight. After landing; there was no point in declaring an emergency for a flight control malfunction. I have learned from this experience and in the future I will make sure that this declaration is made in a timely manner.